GPS Vehicle Tracking - Sorting the Systems

I have been getting several requests for information about automotive GPS tracking systems.  While we have an article by Steve Armstrong that talks about a couple older GPS Navigation Systems, in recent years Vehicle GPS Tracking gadgets have become popular, affordable, and plentiful.  But which ones are not junk and more importantly - what do they do?  They offer not only different features but there are some major differences in deployment and how they are used, ie. how you interact with them.

I'm going to tell you right here that this article is still in the works, I am still doing more research but I wanted to get this started and out for you.  So check back often for updates.  As long as this notice is still here this is a work in progress and changing.

The old classic GPS tracker system installs permanently in the vehicle or equipment and is accessed via satellite.  It requires a monthly fee to access the satellite data.  This is what companies will use to track their fleets or off road equipment with the ability to locate them if stolen.

While the prices of the trackers and the access fees have been rapidly dropping, many consumers today are not needing such a tracking system but still want data on vehicle location and speed.

It's now possible to have this without spending thousands of dollars or pounds.  Still, it comes at the cost of knowledge because the market has been flooded with these small portable GPS tracking devices.

Decisions Decisions

First, we need to consider how we plan on using a GPS Tracker.  Is it for personal occasional use?  Occasional vehicle tracking or permeant?  Pets, recreation, hobby, automotive, spying?

Pets - with pets you are likely looking for a permeant solution that will have to be water proof and battery powered.  Pets would be best with satellite tracking (with a fee) if you will ever need to find them if they run away or are stolen.  This will give you what the VET Chip implant will not do - find your pet without someone finding it for you.

Other GPS tracking uses could be:
    Auto, Pets, Children, Camping, luggage, ...

    and the obscure - Spying, package tracking, model aircraft, ...


Let’s Help Clear the Clutter

Once we realize what we want to keep track of we can narrow down what type of GPS tracking technology to use.

[to be continued]

How To Clean Your Car Bodywork, Properly

by Mark Stephens

As well as spoiling the look of your car, dirty bodywork also reduces the value of your car.  Chemicals in rain and corrosive winter salt mixed with extremes of temperatures really test the paintwork of your pride and joy.

The grime has to be shifted if you don't want to have problems down the line when you want to sell your car.

It's also good practice to wash your car as it gives you a chance to take a look at the bodywork and see if you have accumulated any chips or dings that need attention.  You can also look at wheels, tyres, etc and make sure that they are in good order as well.  So apart from treating your paint work to the wash that it needs, a bucket and sponge is a great opportunity for a quick check-up.

In order to get off to a good start you need to make sure you have some basic kit.

A hose (providing you aren't breaking any hose-pipe bans in the UK), a good bucket (with no grit inside it; give it a good wash out beforehand), a clean sponge, chamois leather and a squeegee blade (Turtle make one that Halford’s sell).

When you are buying a chamois leather a good indicator of its quality is a strong smell of fish oil.  Don't bother with the synthetic cloths - they just aren't as good - if they were, real chamois wouldn't exist anymore!

The first step is to hose the car and shift the heavy mud or grime - if it's on there badly just let the water soak for 10 mins.  Use a good car wash formula (your local Halfords will have some good deals - pick a good name like Turtle or Simoniz).

Starts with the suds at the top of the car and work down, doing one side at a time (and rinsing with water in-between) this will prevent streaking and difficult to remove marks.

Repeat this for the other side. Rinse again and squeegee off the excess water.  Finally finish with the leather to get a squeaky clean finish to the body.

Brought to you by Mark Asset Tags.  Co written by Imogen Thomas Sponsored by Low Rate Credit Card

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Don’t Crash The Car, Well Even If You Do The Car Will Save You

by Anil

Have you been drinking and driving? Or perhaps chatting on your mobile while driving? If you are a little careless while you drive and are prone to having a bump here and there you are better off getting your hands on a new set of wheels with active safety technologies. Car manufacturers such as Mercedes are incorporating space age technology into their cars to save lives or rather save us from crashing our buggies when we are simply too careless with our own lives.  This might sound science fiction to you but these are some of the technologies Mercedes’s latest S Class has:

Auto cruise control warns you if you are getting too close to the car in front and if you don’t react it applies brakes on its own to maintain a safe driving distance.

Traction control sense when you steer too sharply or lose traction in the wet and cuts engine power and limits the power individually to each wheel to bring you back on track.

Anti Lock Braking System, this has been around for quite some time now.  ABS helps in achieving best possible braking performance, it prevent jamming of the wheel which results in skids and loss of vehicle control.  The computer senses when the wheels are about to lock and releases the brakes momentarily and then applies them again.

Airbags, as many as 8 airbags protect you in the unlikely event of a crash.  Airbags exist for all passengers and are inflated in milliseconds when the care ‘senses’ a crash.  Airbags can protect the occupant even at 100mph crashes.

Space Age Safety Technology
Now this is the most impressive of them all, the Mercedes S Class can sense when the car is going to meet with a crash using its 360 degree radar and braces for impact.  It rolls up windows if they are down, inflates the seat cushions to protect occupants and lowers the steering to save the driver from chest injuries and lowers pedals to prevent foot injuries.

Now that’s some technology, all to save our lives when we loose control.  Maybe if Diana was riding this S Class she would have been amongst us.  So lets not crash it, for if you do the car will save you but repairing the high tech car will burn your pockets for technology doesn’t come cheap.  The fully loaded Mercedes S500 with all the safety features retails at over $125,000!

Anil Tandon is a reputed automotive journalist based in India.  Anil has written columns for numerous Indian dailies and auto magazines.  He is currently working as a consultant to the Indian automotive industry.  Anil is also involved with India’s Leading Auto Classifieds Site Indimoto.com which is also India’s First Carpool Site.

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How To Avoid Speeding Tickets

by Tom Bailey

Speeding tickets could cost you much money and additional points on your record.  That is why it is encouraged that you do try to keep your speed within the limit.  This not only decreases your chances of getting pulled over by a traffic enforcer.  This also helps you out in decreasing your chances of meeting accidents, crashes, or collisions that could be the result of driving beyond the given speed.  You should first learn the three types of speed limits which are the absolute, the presumed, and the basic.  The absolute speed limit means that if you drive a mile over the posted limit, you are speeding.  If you can legally exceed the posted limit as long as you drive safely pertains to the presumed speed limit law.  As per the basic limit, it actually allows you and other drivers to drive only as fast as conditions allow, no matter what the limit is posted.

You should also be cautious for you should always be on the alert.  You should also be able to note that all states have a basic speed limit.  Study your state laws.  You see, in California, Arizona, Colorado, and Connecticut, the speed limits are absolute either on highways and everywhere else.

In general, the most basic thing to keep in mind is that you should always drive at or below the posted limit on interstates and state highways.  This is generally just to be on the safe side.

Here are the speed limits in the states in the US as of 2006:
Alabama – 70, Alaska – 65, Arizona – 75, Arkansas – 70, California – 70, Colorado – 75, Connecticut – 65, Delaware – 65, District of Columbia – 50, Florida – 70, Georgia – 70, Hawaii – 60, Idaho – 75, Illinois – 65, Indiana – 70, Iowa – 70, Kansas – 70, Kentucky – 65, Louisiana – 70, Maine – 65, Maryland – 65, Massachusetts – 65, Michigan – 70, Minnesota – 70, Mississippi – 70, Missouri – 70, Montana – 75, Nebraska – 75, Nevada – 75, New Hampshire – 65, New Jersey – 65, New Mexico – 75, New York – 65, North Carolina – 70, North Dakota – 75, Ohio – 65, Oklahoma – 75, Oregon – 65, Pennsylvania – 65, Rhode Island – 65, South Carolina – 70, South Dakota – 75, Tennessee – 70, Texas – 70, Utah – 75, Vermont – 65, Virginia – 65, Washington – 70, West Virginia – 70, Wisconsin – 65, and Wyoming – 75.

For your Mercedes Benz accessories and Mercedes Benz interior parts needs, you can simply visit Same Day Car Parts.  From this site, you can actually access a wide collection of parts for Mercedes Benz vehicles and parts for other vehicle makes and models as well.

Tom Bailey is a consultant for one of the country’s leading auto parts stores.  He is also an editor of a reputable publishing company in his area.  He is currently based in Atlantic City, New Jersey with his wife and 3 children.

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Online Auto Insurance Quotes

Author: Andrew Daigle
Are you searching for better auto insurance rates?  Are you tired of feeling as though you're overpaying despite your spotless driving record?  If so, it's about time you started shopping around for the best auto insurance rates from a new auto insurance company.  Thanks to the web, motorists are no longer limited to dealing exclusively with local agents and hoping for the best deal.  Instead, the internet has opened a new door for those who are looking to compare auto insurance rates and get the best value for their money.

When shopping for auto insurance online, the process of choosing a company is a bit more involved than simply asking your neighbor which local agent they work with.  When shopping for auto insurance online, you may be required to do a bit more footwork while researching the auto insurance company, but in the end, it can pay off in a very big way.  The best way to find a respectable auto insurance company is to research their history, learn about their policies and how long they have been in business, check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau and request a free auto insurance quote.

What is the most common way that an auto insurance company could compete for your business?  By offering the lowest auto insurance rates, correct?  If you said yes, then getting auto insurance online may be the way to go.  Because there's so much more competition online, companies must work harder to get your business.   In most cases, you can complete a request for a free auto insurance quote online in a matter of minutes.  Depending on the specific auto insurance company, the number of requests, the day of the week, and other factors, it may take many hours or even several days to receive a response.  The best part, however, is that you can shop from a nation of auto insurance companies with the click of a button and never even have to step out your front door.

Free auto insurance quotes online are very valuable for any number of reasons, including the obvious fact that they cost you absolutely nothing.  Not to mention, the option is very convenient for someone who lives in a rural location and perhaps isn't close enough to visit several auto insurance companies or doesn't have the access to a great number of companies because of the fact that they reside in a small town.  Where there's less competition, the prices are higher.  But the internet has certainly changed the face of competition by bringing a multitude of options to those who either enjoy the convenience that the internet can offer or those who need the competitive pricing that simply can't be found in their area.  Whether you are shopping for Pennsylvania auto insurance, New York auto insurance, Florida auto insurance, Arizona auto insurance, California auto insurance or anywhere in between, you can search for discount auto insurance rates from the comfort of your favorite recliner.

The information in this article is provided for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional financial or insurance advice relating to auto insurance quotes, discount auto insurance or auto insurance rates.  For additional information or to receive an auto insurance quote, contact a local auto insurance company.

About the Author:
Andrew Daigle is the owner, creator and author of many successful websites including Free Auto Insurance Quotes, an auto insurance company research site and a Low Loan Rates site for finding the best personal loan, payday loans, student loans and more for your financial needs.
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GPS Vehicle Tracking - A Guide To The Tools Available

by Steve Armstrong

[If you are looking for information on GPS Trackers rather than navigation systems, check out this article]

GPS – What does it stand for?

Global Positioning System – Now, it is mainly used for navigation, both terrestrial and marine.  Initially it was used by the U.S. military for locating and identifying friends as well as foes.  The system uses military and commercial satellites for tracking anything that moves and has an emitter with or on it.  Error margins, for GPS, are nowadays within 100 meters, and this can be narrowed down by using differential base stations (DBS).  However, they are hard to use since their range is quite limited.

A new substitute for the American satellites will be the Galileo Satellite System, developed and realized in Europe.  The first satellite, called Glove, was launched in late 2005 from Baikonur, Russian Federation.

GPS – What can I do with it?

Here are just a few of this wonderful piece of equipment.  For instance, if you get lost, your GPS unit can pinpoint you your current position, or, it can make a breeze from an awful task such as planning a trip.  However, its main uses are in vehicle tracking.  Most trucking companies have GPS units on all of their trucks.  This way it is very easy to finding out where a trucker has been to, or where he currently is.  Since the first GPS units were installed on trucks and cars, specialized companies and sites appeared.


Lets look at a two GPS units and their characteristics.

Garmin StreetPilot 2730

This is one of the latest products available on the market.  Its producer presents it as being a “great utility, even when drivers know exactly where they are.”  Some of its features include access to the XM NavTraffic (a data-traffic information service, based on low orbit satellites, covering all of the USA), allowing it to suggest faster routes, before traffic-jam.  The navigation map on StreetPilot 2730, graphically represents any incident affecting the road, including man-made, like road-construction, or accidents.  Weather forecasts are also shown on the GPS unit, for as many as 162 cities.  The StreetPilot 2730, also reads MP3s, and the music can be sent to the car’s stereo through its stereo jack or through a FM transmitter.  The unit is equipped with an antenna, Garmin GXM 30, which can be placed on the roof of the car, or on the dashboard.  It is waterproof and has a magnetic end, for easier placement.

Initial GD-70X

This “little” gizmo has a 7” color LCD, the obvious GPS navigational system, as well as a DVD player, thus making it ideal for family vacations.  It can pinpoint your location on the map, as well as playback your favorite movie or tracks.  It has a set of maps which includes both Canada ant the US. Its map database includes over two million points of interest and it has a 250MB internal memory, large enough for downloading maps and POIs.  An interesting feature are the voice directions, which will help you focus on the road, an still know where you are, and what kind of conditions you are facing out there.  Also, it includes a day/night mode, making it easier to read according to the time of use.  The incorporated CD/DVD player can keep the passengers entertained as well, and if you don’t have a car stereo (who doesn’t), you can always listen to its built-in stereo speakers.

These are just two of the many products on the market that can help you with GPS vehicle tracking.

Steve Armstrong use to produce a site which was full of information on GPS vehicle tracking.

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[Liam's note:  I prefer TomTom GPS devices over all the others I've used.  While all GPS's do not have the same bells and whistle, understanding what you need is what is important when shopping for an in vehicle GPS device.  Most times simple is best.  KISS!]

The Search For That Elusive Classic Car

by Sarah McBride

There are some people who do love to collect cars especially those classics.  One of the more famous celebrities who do own a great deal of vehicles – classic or not – is Jay Leno and he has around hundreds of these vehicles in his garage, or collection.  You, too, can have and start your own collection of vehicles if you do have that much money to spare.  After all, you would want to have a vehicle in your collection that not only looks good but also performs and runs well too.

Classic cars are one of the most famous units that are included in car collections.  If you would like to have a classic car, it is best if you know how to choose a classic that is worth buying.  Knowledge could be taken from a value guide which you can buy in auto stores and some book stores.  These value guides actually provide you in clear terms what various cars in various conditions are really worth.  You see, two models which are similar could be worth different values.

While looking at a possible buy, consider the condition of the vehicle.  Generally, these cars are rated with the scale of 1 to 5. 1 is the best condition and is includes vehicles that are the ideal car show entrants.  Those that are in condition 2 could be those at car shows.  As per conditions 3 and 4, they are mostly those that are constantly pampered and taken cared of.  A car in condition 5 may not be drivable at all.  It is important that you know these terms.

Remember that the more original parts that your vehicle has, the higher the price it will be.  If the car has gone through customization like paint, carpet, wheels, engines, and grilles, the value of that car is much less compared to a car of the same model which has not yet felt any kind of customization.  Rarity is also to be considered.  Another factor is the color of the vehicle.  You see, a red Ferrari would always sell higher compared to a brown Ferrari.  So think about that.

Auto Parts Deal comes in when you do need to replace some parts of your vehicle.  The store holds various auto parts like tailgates, fog lights and spoilers available at its online store.

As a manager of one of the largest auto store in Springfield,Massachussets, Sarah has extensive expertise on auto parts and automotives in general.  This 42 year old is a certified car enthusiast.

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The Modern Day Car: A Sophisticated High Tech Gadget

by Anil

Little did Mr. Ford know that the little black buggy he was making back in the early 90’s would a 100 years later be as sophisticated as the cars of today. Modern day cars are extremely complicated and high tech with some having the computing power greater than the first space shuttle which carried Neil Armstrong to the Moon! Cars today incorporate the latest in silicon technology and it’s the advent of Information Technology which has really given the automobile industry a giant technological leap. As computer chips become cheaper car manufacturers find news ways of integrating them into various functions of the car. Some of the primary technological advancements which have been made in car technology over the past few years are: on board chips in MPFI cars for controlling fuel supply and combustion, safety technologies like airbags, anti lock brakes and seat belt pre tensioners, high tech CVT transmissions, navigation through GPS systems, radar gun scanners, key less entry & theft protection systems & many more.

Some of the most recent technologies which have been introduced include Mercedes active safety technologies which sense when the car is about to have a crash and automatically rolls up the windows tightens the seat belts and inflates the seat cushions to protect the occupants. Then there are automatic headlights which turn on themselves when it gets dark and wipers which turn on automatically when it starts to rain. The list just goes on with seat back massagers, tv and dvd entertainment systems, in car refrigerators, telephone, laptop, sunroofs, heated seats & much much more. There are more gadgets in a car today than there were in an house in the 70’s. Even drivability and handling of a car is controlled by computers, many cars have active air suspensions, traction control systems and active four wheel drive systems.

So when we buy a car today is it just a mode of transport which we are buying? Not really, it’s a mobile relaxation spa for some, a mobile office for others or simply a lifestyle accessory for the rich. One thing is clear, technology is never constant and will continue to amaze us with faster, more sexy and more advanced cars in the future lets keep our eyes on the road.

Anil Tandon is a reputed automotive journalist based in India. Anil has written columns for numerous Indian dailies and auto magazines. He is currently working as a consultant to the Indian automotive industry. Anil is also involved with India’s Leading Auto Classifieds Site Indimoto.com http://www.indimoto.com which is also India’s First Carpool Site.

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Top Must-Have Items To Have In Your Car

By: Jamie Hanson

Most of us have experienced an automobile-related emergency. There are essentials that you should keep in your car to protect yourselves and your loved one(s) during such events. The following list includes recommended items for having in your car that may save you time and headache:

Get Top Must-Have Items to Have In Your Car as a printable PDF specially designed and formatted for your vehicle's glovebox!

1. First-Aid Kit
The kit should include a first aid guide;
bandages; gauze; cold packs; antiseptic; cleanser; ointment packets; scissors; latex gloves.

2. Flashlight
A flashlight serves a dual purpose. It can be used as a light source. And, it can serve a handy weapon should you ever find yourself in a compromising situation. Make sure to get a heavy metal flashlight to keep in your car, in addition to spare batteries. Or, you can purchase a wind-up flashlight so that you won't have to worry about dead batteries.

3. Jumper Cables
Make sure you have jumper cables in the car for when you experience a dead battery.

4. Blanket
Use it to stay warm should you get stranded in the winter.

5. Auto Escape Tool
If your car is submerged in water, this tool is designed to break a window with a couple of blows. In addition, it has a sharp blade to cut through seatbelts.

6. Cell Phone Charger
Purchase a cell phone charger that works in a car lighter.

7. Maps
Purchase the most recent map. They are relatively inexpensive and can keep you from wasting gas if you are lost. Many cell phones come equipped with GPS features (Additional costs may apply).

8. Waterproof Matches
If you are forced to stay overnight in your car and have to make a campfire somewhere beside it, the last thing you want to worry about is how to start a fire.

9. Road Flares
Road flares will make yourself more visible to rescue personnel and other drivers if you are in need of help.

10. Disposable Camera
Purchase a disposable camera and store it in your glove box so that you can take photographic evidence if you are ever in an accident. Cell phone pictures may not provide enough clarity for photographic evidence.

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Having these must-have items in your car is crucial. Find extensive accident resources at accidents.com.

Anti-Theft Devices For Vehicles

by Kenneth McKinley

Cars are expensive. That is why people do try to go out of their way to keep their vehicle safe, secure, and free from thieves and robbers. It is a good thing that some people have been able to create and design anti-theft devices. For most people, these devices are considered as blessings to those protecting their vehicles.

If you are interested in purchasing an anti-theft device for your vehicle, you should first take into consideration where you park your car. You see, if you are parking it somewhere far from where you are staying, even if the alarm goes off, you would not be able to hear it. Also, you would have to consider if people would be willing to rush towards your car or would they simply be ignoring it.

You can try to give thieves the feeling that they could not take your car. You can discourage them with the use of indicator lights. You can also use window decals which costs around $2 to $5. Or, for $80 to $200, you can purchase and use large and heavy-gauge steel objects like steering wheel locks or tire locks. Through this, you are telling thieves to stay off for they would have to put up a hard and tiring fight before they can get their hands on your car.

Look through various anti-theft devices. Remember that seasoned thieves can actually go through complication devices in around a minute or two only. Some anti-theft devices you can usually purchase in the market include audible alarms, a concierge system, cellular alarms that notify the police, locking steering wheel covers, locking steering wheel column covers, locking steering wheel bars, electronic immobilizers, engine system locks, fuel-system locks, tracking devices, and delay devices.

While looking for anti-theft devices for your vehicle, you can also try to locate good and quality auto parts for your vehicles. You can try Volvo Parts and Used Volvo Parts which includes Volvo 160 parts in their stock. Aside from that, the store also has engine parts, brakes, and accessories in store for customers.

Kenneth McKinley is a 35-year old marketing specialist of voparts.com, a leading Volvo parts dealer in the country today. Working in the car parts industry for a long time now and being a car enthusiast himself gives him a wealth of knowledge on anything automotive.

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The Right Car Tracking System

by Michelle Crimson

A tracking system in your car could assist you well enough in finding out where you car may be head or where your car is in once a thief runs away with it. More often than not, people who have cars with a tracking system get them back in one piece still. You see, car tracking devices give you information on the current location of your vehicle so finding it would be easier.

You can have your own car tracking system installed in your beloved machine. Although you would have to first learn about the different tracking systems so you could choose which one would work best for you. Just like everything else, each type of these tracking systems has its own share of advantages and disadvantages. To get information, you can search through the Internet or you can also ask the companies for information about them.

Also, ask about the monthly service costs. At least, you would really know how much you would be spending on these systems and if you could really afford them. It would also be wise to ask if the system would be monitoring your car’s location at all times. That way, you can be sure that anytime you would like to have information about your car’s location, you would be given such as part of the whole payment. Also try to find a car-tracking system that has a wide range of coverage so that if the thief drives your vehicle out to another state, you can still track it.

Purchasing the right car tracking system is just like purchasing the right auto parts for your vehicle. You have to be sure that everything would be working as promised. One of the stores that continually keeps their patrons happy is Jaguar Parts and Jaguar Auto Parts and it is very much capable of supplying auto owners with specially made parts like its collection of Jaguar MK10 parts.

Michelle Crimson holds a degree in business administration. She is currently working as an editor in New Orleans, Louisiana. This 32 year old mother of two is also a car racing fanatic.

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Accessories that Protect your Vehicle

by Rita R. Powers

There are many accessories you can purchase to protect your vehicle. Those mentioned here are just some of the most often chosen. Whether you are looking to protect the interior or exterior, measures taken to keep your vehicle looking its best and at the same time insuring retention of the vehicle’s top value will be highly beneficial when it comes time to trade it in or sell. Even if you are not looking at future values for sale, using accessories like new seat covers, floor mats or a car bra will make you proud to be seen in your vehicle as well as the protection these accessories will provide.

The front-end car bra is an accessory that will provide protection for your vehicle’s front end. Specially ordered for your vehicle, the car bra is made to fit snugly and perfectly for maximum protection. Its value is in its ability to act as a guard from road hazards such as bugs, chemicals such as tar and gravel on roadways and from pitting damage on your automobile’s grill and paint surfaces. The bra, while having an important protective feature, also gives your vehicle a classier appearance. Usually constructed of heavy vinyl and a firm padding underneath, the car bra will stand the test of time. Most vehicle bras are easy to install and remove. The benefits in adding value, protection and a sleek look to your vehicle are well worth the small investment of a car front-end bra.

Bug shields are yet another valuable protective piece you can add to your vehicle. Modern bug shields are designed aerodynamically to not only compliment the look of your car’s front end, but they also maximize fuel usage. By not allowing a pushing type of air force against the vehicle, aerodynamically made shields create an ease in air flow so that your car doesn’t have to use extra fuel to compensate for the additional pressure or work. Bug shields are great for protecting your car from road debris, excessive bug collection and chipping from stones or other road hazards.

A car cover is an essential accessory if you must leave your vehicle outside in the harsh elements of the sun, rain or snow. It will protect your car from wear and tear and the hazards of extreme weather conditions when garaging or cover protection is not available. It should fit snugly around the normally exposed portions of the vehicle. Car covers are usually made of heavy duty protecting materials that will keep the damaging weather elements away from the automobile’s painted surfaces and will protect from the above mentioned weather hazards. Car covers are especially valuable if you use them while shopping or when the vehicle is parked anywhere someone or something can bump into the vehicle and create paint or body damage.

Floor Mats are the perfect accessory to not only give your interior a new or more finished look, they are indispensable in the protection they provide against wear and tear on the floor carpet. You can purchase floor mats in most any variety of colors, styles, and designs. They are available in materials such as rubber and clear plastic to name a few. Floor mats can be made specific to your vehicle or purchased at auto parts stores. The benefits to having floor mats cannot be overstated. They can aid in comfort when driving on long road trips, they protect from shoe damage in the acceleration area of the floor and they keep everyday dirt and grime from attaching to your vehicle’s original carpet. A purchase of floor mats at nominal prices can give your vehicle protection from years of floor or carpet damage in the vehicle.

No matter what part of the world you live in, tinting your vehicle’s windows can offer protection in many ways. Window tinting has long been known to reduce the heat coming into your vehicle. Anyone that owns an automobile in the southwest will tell you that the sun’s heat (and damaging ultraviolet rays) is not only destructive, it is downright uncomfortable. So in these two ways, tinting can increase your comfort while driving and decrease fading or discoloration of the interior’s vinyl or fabric work. If you choose a safety film, you will get even more protection.

A safety film on your vehicle’s windows has been known to reduce injuries to occupants from flying shattered glass in auto accidents. If you have a large object hit your windshield, safety film may deter the object from coming directly into your vehicle and hitting any passengers. If you live in tornado or earthquake zones, this type of film can prevent injury as well by acting as a buffer between you and the shattered glass.

Lastly, but certainly not less important, seat covers have numerous benefits. Seat covers protect the material that covers the original fabric of your car’s seats. This is very important for owners that live in sun drenched areas of the world, work in conditions where your clothing is contaminated with dirt, grease, or other destructive materials and for those owners that participate in activities such as biking, hiking, or swimming (the chlorine alone is severely damaging if you are not fully dried off). Seat covers are not just about protecting, they can also provide a tailored and clean look to your vehicle’s interior.

Your vehicle will look well kept and well taken care of if you purchase seat covers before damage occurs. You can pull them off before selling or trading in your vehicle for that eye-appealing look that says you the owner took very good care of the car. Sometimes a nice and fresh looking interior will sell a vehicle even if the exterior is a bit worn.

While there are many other accessories out there for your vehicle, the ones mentioned here will go a long way in giving you peace of mind. You will know that you have done what you can to insure that your vehicle will look close to new even when it is ten years old. If you want to sell your vehicle someday, you have applied accessories that will most likely bring you maximum dollar at selling or trade-in time. You can never lose by adding protective accessories to you car.

This article was written by Rita R. Powers sponsored by http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/. The Auto Parts Warehouse offers round-the-clock sales support as well as free shipping within the 48 states for orders over $50. Protect the exterior of your car with a Covercraft car cover made to withstand the elements. Visit http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/car_covers~pop.html.

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How To Clean Your Car Bodywork, Properly

by Mark Stephens

As well as spoiling the look of your car, dirty bodywork also reduces the value of your car. Chemicals in rain and corrosive winter salt mixed with extremes of temperatures really test the paintwork of your pride and joy.

The grime has to be shifted if you don't want to have problems down the line when you want to sell your car.

It's also good practice to wash your car as it gives you a chance to take a look at the bodywork and see if you have accumulated any chips or dings that need attention. You can also look at wheels, tyres, etc and make sure that they are in good order as well. So apart from treating your paint work to the wash that it needs, a bucket and sponge is a great opportunity for a quick check-up.

In order to get off to a good start you need to make sure you have some basic kit.

A hose (providing you aren't breaking any hose-pipe bans in the UK), a good bucket (with no grit inside it; give it a good wash out beforehand), a clean sponge, chamois leather and a squeegee blade (Turtle make one that Halford’s sell).

When you are buying a chamois leather a good indicator of its quality is a strong smell of fish oil. Don't bother with the synthetic cloths - they just aren't as good - if they were, real chamois wouldn't exist anymore!

The first step is to hose the car and shift the heavy mud or grime - if it's on there badly just let the water soak for 10 mins. Use a good car wash formula (your local Halfords will have some good deals - pick a good name like Turtle or Simoniz).

Starts with the suds at the top of the car and work down, doing one side at a time (and rinsing with water in-between) this will prevent streaking and difficult to remove marks.

Repeat this for the other side. Rinse again and squeegee off the excess water. Finally finish with the leather to get a squeaky clean finish to the body.

Brought to you by Mark Asset Tags. Co written by Imogen Thomas Sponsored by Low Rate Credit Card

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Driving And Yawning: Not Good

by Kevin Anderson

You can be driving while you are drowsy. And when you are drowsy, your concentration could get quite lessened. You would be yawning and you just feel like you would like to rest. For some people, they could even be driving while asleep with their eyes open, and thus the phrase falling asleep behind the wheel. This kind of situation could lead to accidents.

Fatigue and drowsiness is considered and counted as one of the major factors in crashes. It goes along with driving with excess speed, driving while on alcohol and drugs, as well as driving while ignoring other vehicles’ right of way. Other major factors of crashes include tailgating, improper passing, improper driving to the left of the center, and reckless driving.

So how do you know when you are drowsy and you have fatigue? One sure sign is that you are yawning a lot. You have trouble keeping your eyes open. Also, you are not able to concentrate much on the road ahead. Sometimes, you do not even remember what happened during the last few seconds or even the last few minutes. You may find yourself in crashes if you notice that you are jerking your head or your body because you already are in the brink of falling asleep. And the worst part of fatigue and drowsiness is that your car starts to wander off from the road or starts to cross into other lanes.

When you start to feel these signs, it would be best if you started to slow down. Then, make sure that you pull off in a place where there is a safe parking space. You can call your home if you want to so that other people may come and get you there or if someone is expecting you, inform them that you may be most probably be late or would not be able to make it for that day.

If you have a passenger, try talking to him or her. That should keep you awake. You can also opt to turn on the radio to a station that plays music that would keep you awake. Sing if you can. If you simply cannot just take it, make a pit stop. Go get a soda or some coffee first before you start out back again.

These tips are given and shared so as to help out in preserving and saving lives. Volvo Parts and Used Volvo Parts is also aimed at helping out in preserving lives through its updated stock of Volvo parts like Volvo 850 parts. Their website has all the Volvo parts you may need to keep your vehicle working fine and keeping you safe from accidents.

As a former news correspondents for an auto-related websites, Kevin has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive inddustry. This 34 year old father of three from Pennsylvania is a genuine car lover.

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Pontiac Solstice: Edmunds.com’s Most Significant Vehicle of the Year

by Joe Ratzkin

The Pontiac Solstice has bagged an award just recently. It was named the Most Significant Vehicle of the Year for 2006. This award was given by Edmunds.com. Edmunds.com is one of the premier online resources for information about autos and vehicles and other things related to the automotive industry. This award is also part of the fifth annual Edmunds.com Consumers’ Most Wanted vehicle awards.

Last November, the Pontiac Solstice already received the same award. Now this time around, when the consumers judged vehicles, it again bagged that same title. This exemplary vehicle has gained and took almost half of the consumers’ votes. It was followed by the Honda Civic, and the Chevrolet Corvette.

According to Karl Brauer, the editor in chief of Edmunds.com, “It’s always interesting to tap into the minds of consumers. These annual awards provide insight into consumers’ collective impressions while the Edmunds.com Forums and our social networking web site CarSpace give glimpses into individual opinions every day of the year.” Brauer also added, “The domestic automakers made some real traction this year among the consumers who voted. Domestic vehicles won twice as many awards as they did last year – a good sign for Chrysler, Ford, and GM.”

The Pontiac Solstice is a creation of General Motors and has been in production starting this year. It is a sports car and holds only one body style – a roadster that holds two doors. It has been built using the FR Kappa platform and its power comes from a 2.4 liter Ecotec I4 engine. Its competitors include the Nissan 350Z, the Honda S2000, the Mazda MX-5, and the Chrysler Crossfire. This vehicle has been designed by Wayne Cherry.

For all your needs for Pontiac parts, you can browse through one of the largest Pontiac parts and GM parts suppliers in the US which is Car Parts Rush. You can search online for the latest Pontiac parts, accessories and products at this store and you are certainly on your way to satisfying your Pontiac car parts needs.
Joe Ratzkin is an avid fan of anything automotive. This 34-year old bachelor wanted to be a mechanic when he was a kid but changed his mind and became a freelance writer and researcher instead. He is currently based in Chicago, Illinois.

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Alonso and Schumi battle it out in Barcelona

[Sunday, Formula One Spanish GP] Alonso delights the home crowd as he beats Schumacher by 18.5 seconds after dominating the race from start to finish.

Alonso took pole at 1:14.648, and Schumacher trailed in third with just over 3 tenths of a second behind.

Next up - Monaco, Monte Carlo. 28 May.

Buying Your European Car

by Jenny McLane

Sometimes, just as luck would have it, the vehicle and the dream machine that you are looking for is entirely perfect. Except for one thing: you can only buy it in Europe. Of course, to do that, you still would have to import it back to the United States. And doing such an act could be quite complicated.

Now, before important a European vehicle, try to ask first the Department of Motor Vehicles about any specific requirements. These requirements could include emissions, temporary plates, and special documentation from customs. Also, it would help if you made sure that the sales contract you have verifies that the car has been built so as to match vehicle standards in the US. This manufacturer’s certification label could be actually found attached to the vehicle near the driver’s door.

Traveling your car to the US would require you to first clean it with any kind of foreign soil. The reason for this is that the U.S. Department of Agriculture would like to keep any harmful pests away from US soil.

Upon arriving at customs, show them the shipper’s original bill of lading, your bill of sale, foreign registration, and other needed documents. You also would have to complete the EPA Form 3520-1 and the DOT Form HS-7.

In a nutshell, if you are buying or thinking of importing a European vehicle, you should keep in mind that the vehicle must comply with the requirements of the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If they do not comply, they must be modified. You should also see if the vehicle complies with the vehicle standards in the United States. It should also have a thorough cleaning. You should also have a title and bill of sale. These pieces of information are actually proof that you do own the vehicle. Make sure that you do have a foreign registration as well as other vehicle documents. Do not forget to fill out the EPA and the DOT forms.

If you are worrying though about finding parts for your vehicle, there are auto parts stores that offer such products. Auto Parts Online is one of those and it offers parts for foreign-manufactured vehicles like Kia parts.

Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

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Grand Prix

The Formula One series continues ...

So you see, I’ve been ...

Busy with other things… or was it that my satellite service died on 1 April? I think both! That did mess things up with me keeping up on the Formula One Grand Prix as I wanted to, and thus keep you all informed on the events thereof. It was just over three hours before the start of the Australian GP in Melbourne, and boom, satellite be gone :-( , that sort of hinders my coverage doesn't it?

I would be good to know what interests YOU regarding Motorsport, as there are many angles you can approach it from. You see Drifting is catching on in the states in recent years, though it’s been around about 20 years. But then again, most people in the U.S. don’t know anything beyond NASCAR and INDY, *what’s WRC ?!?*. Unless you’re really into Motorsport and pursue it, there’s a whole universe that’s unknown to you.

I’m not knocking NASCAR, I think NASCAR has been the greatest thing to help the advancement of other Motorsports, in the areas of interest and media coverage. NASCAR coverage has raised the standard for Motorsports coverage, though I’ve seen higher technology coverage used in WRC, NASCAR has raised a form of Motorsport (even if it is roundy-round) to where the common folk actually enjoy watching it. Now if you could just get the NASCAR coverage that Canada has into the States, it would be much better for the fans. Odd isn't it, that Canada gets better coverage than the country that hosts NASCAR. With constant in-car cameras on separate channels…, while there still isn’t a NASCAR race in Canada. What’s up with that?!?

So if you’re not up on the multifaceted world of Motorsport, and you’re finding your way in, you’ll find a lot of changes taking place. Major F1 rules changes this year. There’s been a lot of deaths in Motorsport this year, I plan to have future articles on these and many more recent changes.

Stay tuned, tell your friends, tell me what you like, keep your eyes on the road, and your hands on the wheel.
Keep the Faith! Cheers. -Liam

Getting a Fair Price For Your Vintage Parts

by Dave Carter

Vintage car restoration could be described more accurately as a passion than a simple hobby – little beats the thrill you get after hunting down and fitting that special car part. But passion or no, restoration can be a costly pastime, as sellers understandably try to take advantage of your enthusiasm and get the best price for the part you want so badly. There’s no denying that the right vintage car part is worth a lot to you, but don’t get ripped off. Here are a few tips to help you get a fair price for the part you need.

Before you make that trip to the wrecking yard or vintage parts dealer, be sure to do your research. Check online to see what the going rate for similar parts are. Find out how difficult the part you’re looking for really is and be prepared to pay a little more for rarer pieces.

Try to find a reputable salvage yard or dealer and ask them what their pricing structure is. While you might be better choosing a seller with a formalized pricing plan – some dealers value parts at a percentage of what a new part would cost, for example, while others have a set price for the same part from any car – those who are willing to barter might ultimately offer you the chance to make fantastic finds. Compare a number of parts sources if you can, to try to ascertain where you might get the best deal.

When a price structure is not in place, remember not to give away too much – your obvious enthusiasm for a particular car part might just jack up the price. Express your interest in the part you want, but don’t act as though your life depends upon it: car part shopping can be a treacherous game! The dealer will obviously try to get as much as he can for the part you are after, so bid low, and go up only reluctantly. Play your cards close to your chest, and don’t give away anything that might suggest you are willing or able to pay more – leave the expensive watch at home!

When you finally agree on a price, be sure you know what you are paying for. Is the casing and so on included? Some yards will charge an extra fee for removal of a part that is still in a car, so ask if you can remove the item yourself. Unless the part is deeply embedded in the existing car’s structure, this could save you quite a bit of money, but if the job is complicated you might be best having it removed for you. Saving money pales when personal injury is a real risk! Have fun bargaining, but remember to stay safe.

Dave is the owner of http://car-body-parts.info a website providing information on car parts.

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