Automotive | All About Automotive

Bentley Continental GT BR9 2010

Bentley Continental GT BR9 2010

Bentley Continental GT BR9 2010

Bentley Continental GT BR9 2010

Cadillac CTS Coupe 2011

Cadillac CTS Coupe 2011

 Cadillac CTS Coupe 2011

Cadillac CTS Coupe 2011

The luxury sports coupe will become the centerpiece of Cadillac’s revised lineup, the company said. The vehicle’s design is “virtually unchanged” from the concept version shown at the 2008 Detroit auto show.

“CTS Coupe is the new focal point of Cadillac, expressing both our design and technical capabilities,” Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager, said in a statement. “It is intended to appeal to a new generation of car enthusiasts.”

By PRESS STAFF

Situation
2010 Ford Fusion is Motor Trend's Car of the Year
Beat out 22 other contenders, including new Toyota Prius
Also beat BMW 7-Series and Nissan 370Z
Ford's stock up after billionaire George Soros purchased 7.3M shares
Significant Points
Editors like Fusion's broad appeal, recent improvements
Fusion already set full-year sales record in dismal market
Market share also up; currently best-selling domestic-made car
Analysts say Motor Trend award is more influential than other accolades
Motor Trend editors also pleased w/ performance of Fusion Hybrid
Says
"Ford has proven its resilience in these tough times by delivering to market a car with broad appeal to a broad range of consumers. The Fusion range has matured into a competitive roster of midsize sedans, able to compete with sales juggernauts such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord." -- Angus MacKenzie, editor, Motor Trend

"What it means is that you can have an economical and a fun product. You don't have to make trade-offs. It doesn't have to be odd looking. It shows what an American company can do." -- Nancy Gioia, director of electric vehicle programs, Ford

But here are some questions to consider before you sign on the dotted line

Auto leasing, temporarily crippled by the credit and financial crisis, is making a comeback this fall.

Chrysler, Ford and General Motors all curtailed leasing operations last year when credit markets locked up and soaring gasoline prices left them facing losses on the used SUVs and other gas-guzzlers that their financing arms sell when leases expire.

Business isn't nearly back to where it was before the crunch hit, when leases comprised about 20 percent of all car transactions. But it is trending upward after hitting a high for the year of 12.8 percent in October, up from a bottom of 7.2 percent in August, according to automotive information site Edmunds.com.

The turnaround reflects both the slowly strengthening economy and a change in strategy by U.S. carmakers, whose sales suffered from the absence or limited availability of leasing.

"The Big Three have quietly restarted their leasing programs, even expanding them to include smaller or mid-size vehicles to encourage people back into cars," says Mark Guarino, an auto analyst for Chicago-based market research company Mintel International.

All three have now revived their leasing programs through those finance units, and are able to lease cars at more affordable prices in an improved credit market and still make money. International automakers such as Honda and Toyota, meanwhile, have remained in the leasing market throughout.

Consumers still face a more challenging lease market, however.

Q: Does leasing make any more, or less, sense financially than it did before the crisis?

A: Finding an attractive deal is tougher now, and you'll need good credit to get one at all. Beyond that, the discounts and other incentives long used to make leases more appealing aren't nearly as plentiful.

Otherwise, the pros and cons remain about the same as before.

Leasing can give you lower monthly payments than if you purchased the same car. Or for a similar monthly payment, you can drive a much better vehicle. Problems with the car you leased? The manufacturer's three-year new car warranty should protect you. For that reason, it's advisable to have a lease term of no more than three years.

But it really only makes financial sense to lease if you change cars frequently and can take a tax break for driving for business purposes.

Monthly payments don't stop when you lease. If you buy, on the other hand, you could enjoy years of no payments once a five-year car loan is paid off. And you will own a vehicle that may be worth $15,000 or more.

The question to ask yourself is how much value you place on having only new automobiles.

"If it's important for you to always drive new cars, leasing is a way for you to make that more affordable," says Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor for Edmunds.com.

Q: What can I do to improve my chances of finding a good leasing deal?

A: First of all, watch closely for better price offers as the comeback continues and carmakers try to recoup business now that the sales surge from the Cash for Clunkers rebate program is over.

"You're going to see the manufacturers be more aggressive as the year closes," says chief executive Sergio Stiberman of LeaseTrader.com, an online service for swapping car leases. "So be open for things."

A list of incentives and rebates by region is available at Edmunds.com. If you have decided you want a lease, review what's available, look at the terms to make sure it's active in your area and verify with the dealership's financial arm that you qualify.

Also, check your credit report in advance. There may be problems that could cost you a good lease and can be fixed easily. For example, perhaps you moved and a bill went to your old address that you weren't able to pay on time.

If you're not pursuing a specific incentive, try contacting four or five dealerships in your area for quotes. Tell them what vehicle you want to drive, how many miles a year you intend to drive it and how long a lease you want.

Reed suggests taking the lowest quote you get and calling one of the other dealers to say "If you beat this price, you've got my business."

Check the information site LeaseCompare.com for more information.

You may also want to consider taking over someone else's lease. Check what's available at LeaseTrader.com or Swapalease.com, popular sites that act as matchmakers between buyers and sellers.

Q: If I lease a car, how does insurance coverage work?

A: You are required to obtain insurance on your own, with specified minimum limits. Most leasing companies require at least 100/300 for covering bodily injury — $100,000 per person, $300,000 total coverage.

It will likely be more expensive than insuring a car you own. Since you'll always be driving a new or nearly new vehicle when you lease, you won't have the option of reducing your rate as it ages.

You may also have to get gap insurance, which covers the difference between what your auto insurer pays if your car is stolen or totaled, and the full amount you owe the finance company.

Check to see if the contract you're signing includes gap insurance. If there's an option to buy it you should, Reed advises. Ask the finance manager at the dealership.

By Associated Press

Towing is something you are going to need at one point of time or another .Even of the best of cars does have problems like a flat tire or a battery run out or an accident. After all they are all machines. When towing you need to choose only the best towing that you can find this is one reason you can choose the NYC towing services. The NYC towing services are a towing company that gives you towing and also other maintenance services. Wherever you many be and in whatever condition your car might be in the towing nyc will be there to help you out within no time. You are guaranteed short waiting periods. Some of the services provided by the NYC towing services are as follows

Breakdown Auto Services
They have many auto towing services that include flatbed towing, local towing, heavy duty towing, truck towing and recovery services. The auto services also include emergency repair services like battery charge and jump start, flat tire change, gas services and also lock out services. There are other breakdown services which include auto glass repair, fuel injection, minor body damage repairs, and repairs of minor air condition and transmission problems.

In House Services
NYC towing provides all services related to breakdown and the maintenance of all kinds of vehicles. There are fuel injection services that give your vehicle an improved mileage, reducing emission and giving your vehicle an overall higher performance. The cooling services focus on giving you a perfect cleaning with a lot of advanced technologies. Other services include computerized tire mounting and balancing, regular oil changes, battery checking and charging, checking transmission and overall keeping your car in a good working condition to run smoothly on the road for a long time.

Excellent quality
Towing NYC provides you with excellent quality services and guarantee 100% customer satisfaction. The technicians and staff working on your vehicles are highly experienced and efficient in their work. They ensure a smooth and steady functioning of your vehicle.

Guidance
Our staff at NYC towing services also advice all our clients on various aspects of maintaining their vehicle like engine oil changing regularly, starting up your engine with a clean spark plug, fuel filter changing, suspension system check ups and transmission fluid checks.

In addition to all these services, when you are stuck in any sort of car emergency the NYC towing services are just one phone call away. They are working 24 hours a day and all 7 days a week to ensure that you get on the spot assistance when you require it. The services are provided instantly. If you have any queries and doubts you can visit the website and find all the answers to your automobile queries. If you have further questions you can get in touch with one of the engineers and be assured that you will have your doubts cleared. Once you choose to use NYC towing services you will never think of using another towing service.

By: Freddy Poveda

(NAPSI)-More and more motorists are looking forward to their next road trip because of a no-installation device that sits on top of the dash and lets them play music from their iPod through the car's sound system and make hands-free phone conversations through the car's speakers.

The demand for both iPod and Bluetooth technology in the car is skyrocketing, and consumers want easy ways to use these devices in their vehicles.

This has now become reality with the introduction of Alpine's new eX-10.

Now consumers can easily add both iPod music playback and Bluetooth hands-free operation for cell phones into their vehicles through one simple product.

Popular Devices For In-Car Use

The combination of iPod and Bluetooth capabilities in one plug-and-play unit makes the eX-10 a unique and convenient device. Users no longer have to buy two separate devices to use both their iPod and hands-free Bluetooth services in their vehicle. The eX-10 works with any car's FM radio system and plugs into the car's cigarette lighter. It sits on top of the dashboard and does not require permanent installation.

iPod Playback

For those who can't get enough of their iPod, the eX-10 allows for iPod music to be played through the car's sound system. The iPod's playlists, as well as album art, artist, song and album information are shown on the eX-10's 2.4-inch color display unit.

The included remote control is used to control the iPod and access its music library. For enhanced music playback, the users can choose one of the eX-10's 10 equalizer presets to match their music preference (such as Pop, Rock, Jazz/Blues, or Hip Hop/Rap) for a customized sound experience.

Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone Calls

The eX-10 can control a Bluetooth-enabled phone or device, allowing for a hands-free conversation to be played through the car's speakers. Phone features such as a phonebook list, missedcalls, received calls and dialed calls are accessible through the eX-10 and are displayed on the unit's screen.

By Carjunky

(NUI) - What's in your neighborhood recycling bin? If you are like most diligent recyclers, yesterday's newspaper finds its way atop a curbside pile that includes aluminum cans, glass jars and some two-liter soda bottles. And that's pretty much where most consumer recycling efforts end.

But consider the lowly battery - something to which most people don't give a second thought until this important device stops powering their cell phone, hand-held vacuum and especially their car.

According to AAA, more than 100 million automotive batteries were sold last year in the United States alone, and while most found their way back to recycling plants, several million did not. With the number of vehicles currently more than the number of licensed drivers, the number of junk batteries in search of a final resting place has the potential to increase.

So, what can you do? For starters, don't toss your car's old battery into a bin with your household recyclables and leave it on the curb. An automotive battery, also referred to as a lead-acid battery, contains about 21 pounds of lead, three pounds of plastic and one gallon of sulfuric acid. These items can be toxic if handled improperly.

If you are the do-it-yourself type, take your spent battery to a quality auto parts retailer that is committed to battery recycling.

Each year, AAA handles some 5 million road service calls in North America for battery-related issues. Now, with the advent of new mobile battery service, its members have an option for an "on the go" solution to a dead battery. The AAA Battery Service, available in most municipal areas in North America, can test, diagnose and replace batteries on the spot for members. And each time a new battery is installed, the old one is returned to the manufacturer for recycling.

If you prefer to take your vehicle to a repair shop when it is time to replace your battery, consider one of the more than 5,600 auto service businesses inspected and approved by AAA as part of its approved auto repair program. AAA-approved shops are environmentally aware and will make sure your spent battery is disposed of properly.

To learn more about battery recycling and AAA's efforts to help motorists protect the environment, visit www.aaa.com or www.aaa publicaffairs.com.

By Carjunky

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By: hydraulic hoses

The above fact has been proved by myfoldingbikes.com as they provide you the Strida Folding Bike. These Strida Folding Bike is a type of bicycle that incorporates hinges or joints in the frame and handlebar stem that permit it to be broken down into a more compact size.

Most Strida Folding Bike has wheels of 20 inch (51 cm) diameter or less. The Strida Folding Bike is also called as folders. Strida Folding Bike can be taken on public transport and into apartment buildings or workplaces where conventional bicycles are not allowed.

This facilitates mixed-mode commuting, because a folding bike need not be chained in the street or train station. Strida Folding Bike also makes it easier to transport a bicycle in an automobile.

Folding bicycles often cost more than non-folding bicycles with the same performance-related features, because they have more parts, to allow folding and to lock the frame when unfolded. As a result it has more complicated design, which is more complex to manufacture; as well, there is a smaller market for this type of bike.

As an alternative to folding, some bicycle models achieve similar results by separating a bike into two or more parts for more compact storage or comfort in transporting. These types of bicycle is sometimes grouped in the same category as folding bicycles but are also referred to as break-away, disassemble-able, or separable bicycles. But they are of course very much different from Strida Folding Bike.

Strida Folding Bike are usually associated with urban commuters. Multi-method commuters, who fold and unfold cycles several times per day, and then carry them in cramped public transport, typically want a bike that is easy and quick to fold.

Strida Folding Bike are of great use to Marine users, such as sail boaters who use them to scoot around on land when they dock, more often prefer a bike that folds into a compact package that fits easily into the hold of their boat.
Some folding bike riders use their bikes for recreation, and may only unfold the bike several times a month for a jaunt in the park, so they are more often willing to compromise ease and speed of foldability to get better riding speed and comfort.

While, Strida Folding Bike has a reputation as slow-moving vehicles, in an urban street setting, high-end Strida Folding Bike can go at good speeds. Myfolding.com provides you with the bikes of high technology, fine quality and efficient speed. According to the Bike Friday FAQ, "...tests have shown that up to 16 mph the small wheel is more efficient than a big wheel. Between 16 and 33 mph there is little difference. Over 33 mph the gyroscopic effect of the big wheel makes it more effective.

By: myfoldingbike

Colorado Revised Statutes §§42-10-101 to 107

42-10-101 Definitions. As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) "Consumer" means the purchaser, other than for purposes of resale, of a motor vehicle normally used for personal, family, or household purposes, any person to whom such motor vehicle is transferred for the same purposes during the duration of a manufacturer's express warranty for such motor vehicle, and any other person entitled by the terms of such warranty to enforce the obligations of the warranty.

(2) "Motor vehicle" means a self-propelled private passenger vehicle, including pickup trucks and vans, designed primarily for travel on the public highways and used to carry not more than ten persons, which is sold to a consumer in this state; except that the term does not include motor homes as defined in section 42-1-102 (57) or vehicles designed to travel on three or fewer wheels in contact with the ground.

(3) "Warranty" means the written warranty, so labeled, of the manufacturer of a new motor vehicle, including any terms or conditions precedent to the enforcement of obligations under that warranty.

42-10-102 Repairs to conform vehicle to warranty.

If a motor vehicle does not conform to a warranty and the consumer reports the nonconformity to the manufacturer, its agent, or its authorized dealer during the term of such warranty or during a period of one year following the date of the original delivery of the motor vehicle to a consumer, whichever is the earlier date, the manufacturer, its agent, or its authorized dealer shall make such repairs as are necessary to conform the vehicle to such warranty, notwithstanding the fact that such repairs are made after the expiration of such term or such one-year period.

42-10-103 Failure to conform vehicle to warranty - replacement or return of vehicle.

(1) If the manufacturer, its agent, or its authorized dealer is unable to conform the motor vehicle to the warranty by repairing or correcting the defect or condition which substantially impairs the use and market value of such motor vehicle after a reasonable number of attempts, the manufacturer shall, at its option, replace the motor vehicle with a comparable motor vehicle or accept return of the motor vehicle from the consumer and refund to the consumer the full purchase price, including the sales tax, license fees, and registration fees and any similar governmental charges, less a reasonable allowance for the consumer's use of the motor vehicle. Refunds shall be made to the consumer and lienholder, if any, as their interests may appear. A reasonable allowance for use shall be that amount directly attributable to use by the consumer and any previous consumer prior to the consumer's first written report of the nonconformity to the manufacturer, agent, or dealer and during any subsequent period when the vehicle is not out of service by reason of repair.

(2) (a) It shall be presumed that a reasonable number of attempts have been undertaken to conform a motor vehicle to the warranty if:

(I) The same nonconformity has been subject to repair four or more times by the manufacturer, its agent, or its authorized dealer within the warranty term or during a period of one year following the date of the original delivery of the motor vehicle to the consumer, whichever is the earlier date, but such nonconformity continues to exist; or

(II) The motor vehicle is out of service by reason of repair for a cumulative total of thirty or more business days of the repairer during the term specified in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a) or during the period specified in said subparagraph (I), whichever is the earlier date.

(b) For the purposes of this subsection (2), the term of a warranty, the one-year period, and the thirty-day period shall be extended by any period of time during which repair services are not available to the consumer because of war, invasion, strike, or fire, flood, or other natural disaster.

(c) In no event shall a presumption under paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) apply against a manufacturer unless the manufacturer has received prior written notification by certified mail from or on behalf of the consumer and has been provided an opportunity to cure the defect alleged. Such defect shall count as one nonconformity subject to repair under subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2).

(d) Every authorized motor vehicle dealer shall include a form, containing the manufacturer's name and business address, with each motor vehicle owner's manual on which the consumer may give written notification of any defect, as such notification is required by paragraph (c) of this subsection (2), and the form shall clearly and conspicuously disclose that written notification by certified mail of the nonconformity is required, in order for the consumer to obtain remedies under this article.

(3) The court shall award reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing side in any action brought to enforce the provisions of this article.

42-10-104 Affirmative defenses.

(1) It shall be an affirmative defense to any claim under this article that:

(a) An alleged nonconformity does not substantially impair the use and market value of a motor vehicle; or

(b) A nonconformity is the result of abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications or alterations of the motor vehicle by a consumer.

42-10-105 Limitations on other rights and remedies. Nothing in this article shall in any way limit the rights or remedies which are otherwise available to a consumer under any other state law or any federal law. Nothing in this article shall affect the other rights and duties between the consumer and a seller, lessor, or lienholder of a motor vehicle or the rights between any of them. Nothing in this article shall be construed as imposing a liability on any authorized dealer with respect to a manufacturer or creating a cause of action by a manufacturer against its authorized dealer; except that failure by an authorized dealer to properly prepare a motor vehicle for sale, to properly install options on a motor vehicle, or to properly make repairs on a motor vehicle, when such preparation, installation, or repairs would have prevented or cured a nonconformity, shall be actionable by the manufacturer.

42-10-106 Applicability of federal procedures.

If a manufacturer has established or participates in an informal dispute settlement procedure which substantially complies with the provisions of part 703 of title 16 of the code of federal regulations, as from time to time amended, the provisions of section 42-10-103 (1) concerning refunds or replacement shall not apply to any consumer who has not first resorted to such procedure.

42-10-107 Statute of limitations.

Any action brought to enforce the provisions of this article shall be commenced within six months following the expiration date of any warranty term or within one year following the date of the original delivery of a motor vehicle to a consumer, whichever is the earlier date; except that the statute of limitations shall be tolled during the period the consumer has submitted to arbitration under section 42-10-106.

By Carjunky

(ARA) - Water. Dust. Mud. Together they are the soup we feed our ATVs -- gobbled up without so much as a post-ride burp. Maintenance-free suspension bushings, fully sealed engines and electronics and tough-as-nails drive systems see to that.
But a diet of these potentially destructive ingredients requires a few key maintenance measures to keep your ATV in top shape and ready for more feasts of terra firma. According to the expert Arctic Cat, Cat Master Technician Dealers, a few simple tips will keep your ATV in top form, whether it’s a classic or a new model, like the just-introduced Arctic Cat 650V2 4x4.

General Maintenance

Different conditions and riders make any one-size-fits-all maintenance program impossible. However, you’ll do your ATV (and your wallet) a big favor by following these five general maintenance procedures at a frequency that makes sense for the conditions and duration you ride.

1. Proper Tire Pressure: Air pressure is a huge factor in how your ATV rides. Too little pressure produces heavy steering and unpredictable handling. Too much means accelerated tire wear and a rough ride. And only 1-psi can make a significant difference. Solution: Check all four tires before each ride.

2. Air Filter: It’s so quick and easy to pull the air filter, rinse/wash it with filter cleaner, blow it dry, treat with filter oil and reinstall that you should do so once a month and after every dusty ride. Tip: For extra engine protection in dusty conditions, use a genuine Arctic Cat prefilter.

3. Oil and Filter: Changing the oil and filter on your ATV once a year (more if you’re riding hard in the heat) will keep your ATV engine fresh and healthy. For the best results, use the new, specially formulated synthetic oil from Arctic Cat.

4. Condensation Check: Are you riding in mud and water? Water condenses when a hot front differential (on 4x4 ATVs) and rear gear case contact with cold water or mud, contaminating the oil. Dip a clean, clear plastic zip-tie into the inspection plughole, and then check the oil. If it’s milky, drain and refill.

5. Boot and Bellows Check: Inspect the rubber CV boots on each wheel and the rubber vent bellows on the front differential (4x4 models) and rear gear case. If they’re torn, replace them before riding or risk an expensive repair bill.

Technicians also recommend using a high pressure washer like those at self-service car washes to spray the layer of dirt from your ATV, making sure to clean all dirt and debris from the radiator (on liquid-cooled models) and the engine/engine head (on air/oil-cooled models). Spray both sides of the two front brake discs and the single rear disc. (Tip: After spraying each side of each disc, roll the ATV forward to expose the portion shielded by the brake pads, then spray again.)

With a little preventative maintenance, you’ll be ready for the trail in no time.

By Carjunky

(NAPSI)-Just as people can change their clothes to match weather conditions, car owners now have the option of matching different materials and designs for car covers to the environment when protecting a car against the weather.

Here are some options:

Let the Sun Shine

Some areas of the country see 200 or more days of sunshine each year. Unfortunately, exposure to ultraviolet rays and radiant energy from that much sun can cause a car's paint colors to fade, and the clear coat to cloud, crack, dry out and deteriorate.

Also, heat trapped inside a car can dry out and deteriorate vinyl, leather, plastic and rubber. It can also break down foam padding and adhesives and can "cook" audio components, tapes and disks.

Vehicle owners in areas where these conditions occur may want to look for a car cover that offers a high UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating. Covers with the Evolution® Fabric label are said to offer the highest UPF rating possible. The fabric is the first to offer a UPF rating.

Rainy Days and Mondays

While an occasional rainstorm won't destroy a car's paint job, corrosion begins any time a car is subjected to extreme moisture, as it can be in some of the rainier areas of the country. Moisture can seep into tiny cracks and dings and work against the paint from the inside out, separating the paint from the metal and causing the metal to oxidize.

Experts say the best car covers for wet and rainy conditions are made of fabric with a microporous film middle layer that provides a water-stopping barrier but allows evaporation of trapped condensation, such as Noah® Fabric made by Kimberly-Clark.

Snow, Beautiful Snow

If you live where there's a lot of snow, you know what a hassle it can be to clear away frost, ice and snow from a car before driving away.

Using a car cover when your vehicle is parked outside lets you avoid that time-consuming de-icing routine-not to mention the danger of driving with a frost-covered windshield.

In less than a minute-the average time it takes to put on or take off a car cover-you can be ready to drive away. In snowy climates, many look for covers with the Block-It® Fabric label to make sure the cover is designed to protect a car from the wet winter elements. For more information, visit www.block-it.com.


Some car covers now offer protection against the sun's ultraviolet rays. This can protect both the car's interior and its paint job.

By Carjunky

Each child safety seat needs a safety belt or LATCH to hold it in place. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is a system designed to make safety seat installation easier.

Check the safety seat instructions and the vehicle owner's manual for tips on using the safety belts or LATCH to install a safety seat (E).

If using safety belts, put the vehicle safety belt through the correct belt path on the child safety seat (see F below). Check the child safety seat instructions or look for labels on the seat that mark the safety belt path. Use the correct belt path for the direction the safety seat is facing.

The child safety seat must stay tight at all times. Check for tight fit by holding the seat at the belt path and by pulling the seat side to side and forward. The child safety seat should not move more than one inch sideways or toward the front of the vehicle.

IS THE HARNESS POSITIONED THE RIGHT WAY AND BUCKLED SNUGLY ON THE CHILD?

The harness straps must fit on strong parts of the body: the shoulders and hips.

Use the correct slots for the harness (F). Using the wrong slots can cause serious injury. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the correct placement of the harness straps.

Keep straps on the child's shoulders, not arms. Keep straps flat on the child's shoulders and snug enough to keep the child from moving forward.

Place the harness retainer clip at armpit level (F).

WHEN IS A CHILD READY FOR THE ADULT SAFETY BELT?

Until age 8, most children have not developed strong hipbones, and their legs and body are too short to allow for proper fit of a safety belt. Safety belts are designed for adults.

To be able to fit in a safety belt, a child must:

Be tall enough to sit without slouching,

Keep his/her back against the vehicle seat back,

Keep his/her knees completely bent over the edge of the seat,

Keep his/her feet flat on the floor, and

Be able to stay comfortably seated this way.

The lap belt must fit low and tight across the upper thighs. The shoulder belt should rest over the center of the shoulder and across the chest (G).

Never put the shoulder belt under the child's arm or behind the child's back. This can cause severe internal injuries in a crash. If the safety belt does not fit properly the child should use a belt-positioning booster seat.

Always check belt fit on the child in every vehicle. A belt-positioning booster seat may be needed in some vehicles and not in others.

ALWAYS read and follow the child safety seat instructions and the vehicle owner's manual!

By Carjunky

When the economy is down, business is up for companies that help people repair and extend the life of high cost items like cars and other vehicles. If you have been considering opening an auto repair shop or auto parts store, now is a great time to start your small business. You will need a good location, clever marketing, and a full stock of wholesale auto parts.

As long as people have somewhere to go, they need their cars to operate and run smoothly. By repairing and selling parts for the repair of automobiles, you are providing a valuable and lucrative service.

Which Wholesale Auto Parts to Stock

You will need a complete range of automotive tools for your repairs such as smaller car repair tool kits for your clients. Most auto parts stores stock available tire repair kits and accessories, road side emergency kits, gas cans and funnels, car mats, steering wheel covers, window shades, and a complete line of automotive cleaning products, such as turtle wax.

Stock the displays at the end of aisles and the counter with impulse buy car accessories such as CD cases, air fresheners, car flags, and key chains. Don't forget to offer items for motorcycle repair and maintenance, too. Motorcyclists make frequent pit stops and take very care of their rides.

Extra Specialty Items

If there is a strong market for specialty items in your area, you need to carry those in your store. Many young people spend time, energy and money upgrading their car sound systems with the latest vehicle audio equipment.

And people with children are always looking for ways to keep their kids comfortable and safe in the car. carry a variety of child passenger safety products such as window shades, mirrors, and seat alarms.

Technology is opening up a range of products, from GPS navigators to cellular phone accessories for the vehicle. Many states have laws requiring the use of hands-free cell phone technology in the car so ear buds, car chargers, and cell phone holders for the car are all popular motorist items.

Keep in mind seasonal needs, as well. Shovels, snow brushes, and ice scrapers sell fast when the first storm hits so buy in bulk and have plenty in stock. If you have storage space, pick up closeout items during the off season and you will be ready when terrible weather sends motorists searching for the last snow scraper in town.

Where to Open an Auto Repair Shop or Auto Parts Store

If you plan to primarily sell auto parts at your store and offer only a few basic services, such as replacing brakes and changing oil, you can open your shop in almost any commercial space.

Full auto repair services require property zoned for heavy commercial use. Check with your local town planning board before you begin your search.

Alot of auto parts and repair shops are located at busy intersections. Visible locations do some of your marketing for you, saving you money.

Purchase Auto Parts and Car Accessories Wholesale

To save money when stocking your automotive repair part store, buy wholesale auto parts. You need to find the least expensive quality products available and wholesale gives you a good profit margin on automotive parts. Once your store has been open for a few months, you will have a good idea of which auto parts sell most quickly, so buy those in bulk and on closeout whenever possible.

By: Gen Wright

(ARA) - Young people anxious to get a job sooner rather than later, a job with excellent growth potential, a job that does not require four, five, six or more years of college should consider a career path in automotive technology.
The high-tech automotive technician armed with computerized diagnostic tools and engine analyzers has supplanted the old image of the auto mechanic. Officials with the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) -- the independent group that tests and certifies the competence of auto technicians nationally -- note that automotive service and repair has changed dramatically over a generation.

High-tech systems unheard of 30 years ago are now common on the nation’s fleet of vehicles: stability and traction control systems, adaptive cruise control and variable valve timing, to name a few. And more changes are on the way: hybrid vehicles are becoming a reality, hydrogen fuel cells may become viable in the near-term; interactive suspensions, continuously variable-speed transmissions, and 42-volt batteries will soon become commonplace.

These developments spell good news for talented young people with math, science, communications and technical skills.

And unlike many high-tech careers that require extensive and expensive college training, automotive technology careers can begin after two years of college. As with any career, lifelong learning and updated training are necessary, but the simple fact is, students in automotive technology can get out into the real world sooner -- and with less college debt.

Moreover, job growth looks strong into the foreseeable future. Estimates of job growth range from 35,000 to 60,000 openings annually. Whatever the exact number, one thing is certain: the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics lists automotive technicians as one of the top 20 jobs with relatively high median earnings and the potential for significant job openings over the next decade.

And with the outsourcing of jobs picking up steam -- first manufacturing jobs, now computer programming, customer call-center work, and accounting services all going overseas -- it should be comforting to know that automotive service and repair is resistant to such moves.

So, what kind of work is out there?

The jobs run the gamut from line technician to service consultant, service director, or storeowner. There is work in parts, parts distribution and wholesaling; collision repair, painting, and damage estimating. There’s the growing field of high-performance machining and rebuilding. There is work in technical areas, training, or in management at the corporate level for national franchises, vehicle manufacturers, and private and municipal fleets. There are positions with high schools and community colleges as well as proprietary schools as instructors. Still other technicians find themselves moving into sales, marketing, and business management. Countless automotive aftermarket executives got their start turning wrenches. (Though nowadays the tool of choice is as likely to be a diagnostic computer and monitor.).

In fact, so many people have made their beginnings in the automotive aftermarket as an auto technician, that it is viewed as something of a portal career. And for those whose true calling is in the service bay, it’s far from a dead-end career. Top-notch technicians well versed in computer diagnostics and the latest engine performance and driveabilty solutions can and do command top-dollar salaries. Annual salaries of $75,000 or more are not unheard of for such pros. Pride in work, technical savvy, and craftsmanship are rewarded.

So if your child is chaffing to get out in the real world and make his or her mark, do consider automotive technology. Ask your child’s guidance counselor, or better yet, visit your local community college.

The nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the only nationally recognized certification program for automotive service professionals. ASE offers a wide range of tests that serve virtually every segment of the automotive service arena. Some 400,000 professionals hold current ASE certification. To learn more, go to www.ase.com.

The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, or NATEF for short, is ASE’s education arm. NATEF works closely with the automotive service industry to develop national standards for automotive training programs. Such programs, in turn, benefit students and employers alike by providing a steady stream of job-ready young technicians. For more information about NATEF’s programs, a list of certified automotive Vo-Tech programs in your area, and additional career information, visit www.natef.org.

By Carjunky

Going back to the autumn of the year 1990, people would be able to recognize that it was during this time and season that the world came to know the Volvo 960. During that introduction for the vehicle, the Volvo 960 was introduced as a 1991 year model. It was also launched alongside the Volvo 940. It was marketed as the replacement for the then defunct Volvo 760. It lived for quite sometime. This vehicle was known as the Volvo S90 and the Volvo V90 for the last two years of its existence. And in the year 1998, production for this vehicle was entirely halted.

These vehicles were actually built in Kalmar in Sweden. The very first Volvo 960 was actually completed and came out to the streets on the 12th of August in 1991. It was then packaged as a 1992 year model. Starting from 1995 up until a year before its last production, the Volvo 960s were built in another location. This time, it was in Goteborg, Sweden. It was in June 27th of 1994 that the very first one from this location came out to do some rolling on the streets.

In the United States, the Volvo 960 parts were equipped with an electronically controlled Asin Warner automatic gearbox. As per those that were marketed in Europe, these came with 2.5 liter engines combined with a manual gearbox that was called as the M90. These vehicles were actually a range of rear wheel drive cars. They were crafted and specifically built so as to cater to the tastes, preferences, and appeal of the buyers from the United States. By doing such, the Volvo 960 was one of the cars that paved the way for Volvo to enter and expand its market in North America. This vehicle has been made available in two versions which comprised of the sedan which held four doors and the estate car which boasted of five doors.

As for the Volvo 960s marketed in the United States, these actually got their power from an all new in line 6 cylinder block with double overhead camshafts. The engine was a DOHC unit. Each of the cylinders had four valves. It was an advanced engine during that time.

By: Abi

Did you know that every year in the US there are more than 10,000 car accidents and some 400 Americans die in them. The usual reason is failure to have routine maintenance done on cars.

The car is the most popular and usual means of transportation in the United States, and about 90% if adult Americans own one now or used to own one. By keeping your car in good condition you can reduce the risk of easy to fix problems causing an accident that could kill you, your passengers or people in other cars.

Before hitting the road, you should check the following items regularly.

1. Your Tires – Lots of American cars have all season tires on them. What ever the kind of tire you use it is important to regularly check them. Check for air levels, flats, leaks, worn spots, over use, low treads. Just inspect your tires weekly.


2. Your Wipers –You should change your windshield wipers at least twice a year. So that means just about every six months.

3. Your Brakes – You need your brakes to slow your car down when you press on them. If you press on your brake pedal and it goes all the way to the floor, you need to have them checked. They are way too low.

Newer cars may have a brake warning system in to automatically let you know when there is a problem with your cars brakes. It is usually found on your dashboard, and will light up if it finds a problem with the brakes.

This signal will let you know it is time to have a mechanic check out the brake system unless you are handy enough to fix it yourself. Check your owners manual to see what your specific problem may be.


4. Your Headlights – Can you believe that in the year 2005 more than 2300 pedestrians died because some drivers had problems with either their headlights or their vision. You should replace your headlights every year.

Here is my top 10 List for visits to the mechanic

1. Electronic/Ignition control
2. Electrical problem
3. Suspension/steering
4. Brake system
5. Oil change/filters/lube
6. Radiator problem
7. Exhaust system
8. Fuel system/carburetor
9. Clutch/transmission
10. Air conditioning system

Keeping up with routine check ups and car maintenance can be expensive. That is the most common reason that lots of people don't keep up with the maintenance as suggested in their car owners manual. You can find ways to save money on auto repairs.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) confirmed that $20 billion was spent on auto repairs that were not necessary due to fraud and incompetence. Here are some simple tips for you to show you how you can afford repairs when you need to have them done.

1. Preventive Maintenance – This can save you a lot of money during the life of your car. It will prevent serious damage that can be done to your car by letting little problems become big ones. Read your owners manual and follow the recommended servicing's that will keep your car in good shape and keep it running longer.

2. Get An Estimate – Before you let the mechanic do the work your car needs get a written estimate. It is always good to know what you are being charged and what work will be done to your vehicle. If the price he gives you sounds to high, check other mechanics in your area. It is always smart to get at least three estimates before having any work done.

3. Car Pooling – You should give your car a rest once and awhile. You can try car pooling with co-workers to save your car some wear and tear, and you can save yourself money by sharing the cost of gas, tolls and parking.

4. Do The Repairs Yourself – If you read your car manual you will increase your understanding of the basic workings of the car, and how to fix them. There are some things you can do yourself without too much technical knowledge. You can change your own oil, and give your car a tune up.

Don't try to undertake tasks which you have no knowledge of whatsoever, but routine maintenance should be easy for you to handle. You can take a beginner mechanic course at a local high school adult center to learn exactly how to do simple repairs.

You can often find the answer to your repair question in your owners manual, and it will let you see if it is something you can do yourself or if your car needs to go to the shop.

By Carjunky

The answer to this question lies within the individual that is looking for a new vehicle. There are pros and cons that go with each of them. Making it vital that the individual research and be sure of the decision they are about to make about leasing or buying a car before the final paperwork is signed and made legal.

Driving around in a new vehicle is a wonderful thing, however, it should also be affordable to do so. Depending on the amount of money that is available might weigh in heavily on the choice of leasing or purchasing the vehicle.

Paying on a lease vehicle is much less expensive on a month to month basis because you do not have pay for the entire depreciated value of the vehicle only the part that you have custody of. Which can wind up saving a fairly decent amount of money in the long run.

Your individual preference should take precedence when making your final decision to lease or buy a new vehicle. For instance, if you rather drive around in a new vehicle every two to three years a lease may be a better choice for you.

If you are the type of person that names your vehicle and really seems to bond with it then purchasing the vehicle might be a better decision for you.

Another top concern when making your decision is exactly what your transportation needs are. For example, in a lease you are only allotted a certain number of miles to be put on the vehicle during the course of the lease.

Are you able to stay in those specifications? Is it feasible that you will not go over the miles for work as well as for play?

Leasing a vehicle and going over the mileage can be very costly, so if you do not anticipate being able to stay within the guidelines in the lease, purchasing the vehicle might be your better option.

On the other hand if you feel you will more than likely not put anymore than about 8,000 miles a year on the vehicle and you prefer to drive a new car every few years a lease is the more appropriate choice for your needs.

After taking into consideration all of the pros and cons of each of the options, it is then that a consumer is able to better make an educated decision on the next vehicle they will be driving off of the car lot.

The Dodge Ram is one of the pickup trucks that's getting a lot of praise this year. Find out why this "big rig" is getting all the kudos.


(NAPSI)-For the 2009 model year, big things were in store for a top-selling "big rig"--and the vehicle that emerged is a truck that pulls out all the stops.

With a bold, powerful, "get-out-of-the-way" design, the all-new Dodge Ram has more than 35 new or improved features. For instance, equipped with a new-generation, 5.7-liter HEMI®, which produces 380 hp and 404 lb.-ft. of torque, the R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

The new Ram has an improved frame design that incorporates high-strength steel supports; an all-new, first-in-segment, multi link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,850 pounds); and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 pounds).

The line features an available first-in-segment RamBox cargo management system that provides weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides for effortless access and convenience. The RamBox system also includes a bed divider/two-foot bed extender for oversize loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats for infinitely adjustable tie-down capability. Another new segment-first innovation is a pair of "store in the floor" bins with removable liners that offer even more versatile storage.

The all-new interior stands out with a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship, expressed in premium interior appointments--including six-ring instrumentation, redesigned controls, chrome accents, premium seating with improved bolsters and two-tone upholstery. In addition, the interior is significantly upgraded with "soft-touch" materials and premium fit and finish.

Consumers aren't the only ones responding to these new truck models. The automotive industry is piling on the praise as well, with such kudos as:

• MotorWeek's Drivers' Choice Awards, "2009 Best Pickup Truck";

• International Truck of the Year, awarded by international journalists;

• Cars.com’s "Work Truck of the Year";

• Texas Auto Writers Association's "Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas";

• Consumer Guide's "Best Buy for 2009" in the Large Pickup category; and

• Truckin' magazine's "2009 Truck of the Year."

To learn more, visit the Dodge Web site at www.dodge.com.

This award-winning truck is considered a game-changer in terms of capability, convenience, craftsmanship and safety.

By Carjunky

(NUI) - Do you need to let go of your unwanted car, truck or van? Have you considered donating it?

Across the nation, an increasing number of charities have turned to car-donation programs as an effective way to raise money.

However, it's important to be cautious when deciding where to donate your car. Be wary of an organization's telemarketers that refuse to disclose information or are vague about where your donation is going.

Follow these tips from the Kidney & Urology Foundation of America Inc. to help ensure that your donation is used as you intended:

* Never speak with a telemarketer or second party.

* Ask what percentage of your donation will go to your intended cause. Ask the organization if it is officially associated with the charity or if it is a private fund-raiser acting on the charity's behalf. If it's a private fund-raiser, inquire what it intends to do with the vehicle.

* Examine what percentage of revenue the charity spends on its charitable programs to the percentage it spends on administrative costs. This information can be found through the state attorney general's office or the secretary of state's office.

According to the Kidney & Urology Foundation of America, your donation to the LifeCars Program will go directly toward fighting kidney, urologic and hypertensive diseases that affect 70 million Americans, nearly one in four people. Money raised will support medical research to find new therapies and treatments, professional training and education, and direct patient support for those suffering or at risk.

The foundation promises that at least 85 percent of the net proceeds raised from the donation of your vehicle will go directly into medical research and patient support.

By donating an unwanted vehicle to the Kidney & Urology Foundation, you also may be eligible for a tax deduction equal to the fair market value of your vehicle. Speak with your tax consultant for details.

For more information on how you can make a donation and save someone's life, call 1-800-63-DONATE or log on to www.kidney urology.org.

By Carjunky

Buying Used? How to Avoid Getting Bitten by Repair Costs

(ARA) – If your old clunker is gasping its last, you might think (like millions of other Americans these days) you can save yourself some money by buying a used car instead of a new one. You can -- if you make smart buying decisions. Hasty or unwise used-car buying can end up costing you much more in the long run.

As new car sales have crashed, purchases of used cars continue to rise, according to many news reports. In March, PBS reported that dealerships sold more than 2 million used cars in recent months, about 25 percent higher volume than you would expect in a healthy economy. The math behind the trend is simple: new cars cost more than used, depreciate faster and are generally costlier to insure, so more Americans are buying used to save money.

But what about repair expenses? If you buy a used car for $15,000 and it costs you $5,000 in repairs in the first year, have you really saved? To ensure you’re buying a used vehicle that won’t turn into a money pit, follow a few simple steps:

Early in the Process:

Repairs are a reality of used car buying. As vehicles get older, they begin to need more maintenance and repairs. Some newer model used vehicles may still have some factory warranty left, but older models usually do not. An impending need for repairs, however, may not necessarily be a deal-breaker if you find out ahead of time how much those repairs might cost and budget appropriately.

You probably already have a few makes and models in mind. Before you settle on one, compare the cost of the parts needed for the most common repairs and maintenance. One model may have a sales price that’s $5,000 less than another you’re considering, but if the cost of parts is 20 or 30 percent higher than parts for another vehicle, the higher priced model might actually be a better deal.

Turn to resources like RockAuto.com to compare parts prices. The site’s Repair Index automatically pulls prices from the company’s vast auto parts catalog based on year, make, model and type of part. It’s a quick, easy way to compare parts costs for different models and the results can be surprising.

For example, you might think a Chevy Metro is an economical car, but parts for one can be expensive, according to RockAuto, which sells parts for an average 20 to 60 percent less than other parts dealers. The bulk of the company’s business is selling parts direct to consumers, so it’s possible to save even more money by buying parts directly and doing repairs yourself. Visit www.RockAuto.com to learn more.

Next, check the repair history for a particular make and model from a credible source like Consumer Reports. The independent ratings organization maintains a huge database of information on virtually every make and model vehicle available in America. Actual owners and drivers contribute the information based on their experiences with a particular vehicle.

Once You’ve Narrowed it Down

When you find a vehicle you’re interested in, check the repair history and maintenance for that specific car. Pull a vehicle history report from a third-party source like CarFax, which will generally list major (reported) maintenance and accidents. The report can also help you spot discrepancies in odometer readings, if the vehicle has been used in an area prone to flooding, or if it’s been rebuilt after being in an accident so severe it was declared a total loss.

Never buy a used car until you’ve had it checked by your own mechanic – not even from a dealership that offers “certification” on its used vehicles. If a seller isn’t willing to let you take the vehicle to your mechanic, walk away.

Finally, consult your insurance agent to see how much it will cost to insure the vehicle. A used car that actually increases your annual premium may not be the great deal you thought it was.

By Carjunky

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Some of the others services are related to the features and aspects such as CCTV monitoring, access control applications, etc..
For the high standard security services of the Residential Buildings there are also communal facilities of the Doors, and many other such facilities.

All in all the services associated with security solutions are well taken care of by the facilities of Locksmith in the most effective Mann.

By: JessicaThomson

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We are one of the most reputed name engaged in Manufacturing and Exports of Car Parts and Truck Parts. Today we are recognized as a highly trusted business entity producing premium range of Car Parts and Truck Parts. Our Company is dedicated to Manufacture good quality Rubber Moulded parts allowing us to offer our clients the best quality at most comprehensive prices and highly professional services. We understand the precise requirement of our honorable clients and take utmost care in the in house quality control set up and Research & Development activities.

By: peugeotsparepart

The 2007 Hummer H3 is smaller than the Cadillac Escalade, the Toyota Highlander, and the Ford Explorer – but it hasn’t lost any of the luxurious panache associated with larger SUV’s.

In fact, the 2007 Hummer H3 has been re-born into a gentler, kinder Hummer for the modern world, boasting fuel-efficiency of 16 mpg city, and 20 mpg highway (not bad for a SUV), without compromising the brash look or the off-road prowess of its higher price cousins: the H1 and H2.

Critics who once slammed the Hummer for being big, ostentatious, expensive, and a power-tripping fantasy miss the point – for $28,935 you can now get a well-equipped truck uniquely made for truck lovers.


In addition, the comfortable leather seats, spacious inner cabin, the 220 horsepower engine, and bodacious exterior suggests the 2007 Hummer H3 is a lot more sophisticated than other SUV’s on the road.


Historically, we can trace the Hummer’s beginning to 1979 when the US military was looking for a new general-purpose vehicle to efficiently replace the Jeep. Although the Jeep was the motorized symbol of the army during Word War II, and the Korean War, by the 1970s it had become obsolete.

As such, a call went out for the development of a High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) to meet the army’s need for moving troops and light equipment to/from the battlefield. In July 1980, AM General’s prototype Hummer was chosen over two other military contractors: Chrysler Defense and Teledyne Continental.

Based on a steel frame with an aluminum and fiberglass body, the first Hummer sported a fully independent suspension, and a General Motors 370-inch diesel V8 engine. It produced 150 horses and was able to reach top speed of 60 mph. An automatic transmission put the power to the ground through an all wheel drive system with geared hubs. The tires that propelled the vehicle were 36 inches tall and air pressure could be adjusted from within the cockpit.

As such, the first Hummer was a design and engineering marvel. Today there are more than 20 versions optimized for specific military applications.

The Hummer was introduced to the American public in 1990, with the start of Operation Desert Storm. The TV coverage showed U.S. Special Forces driving the Hummer to action in Kuwait and Iraq.

That same year, movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger pulled up in one at the Academy Awards. His custom Hummer was the first civilian version and featured the Corvette’s V8 engine. Two years later, the first civilian Hummers were delivered and were much different from their military cousins.

For starters, the “civvies” included insulation, sound deadening, and a semi-comfortable interior. However, the price of $50,000 to $90,000 put it in an exclusive category, out of reach for most people.

For 2007, the Hummer H3 has been substantially redesigned to meet the needs of a more demanding public. As such, the 2007 Hummer H3 is a very accessible vehicle that’s easy to get into and drive.

Once behind the wheel, you may easily be fooled into believing you’re inside a more expensive Range Rover. There is plenty of room for five adults and the H3’s bucket seats are well supportive and extremely comfortable for long trips.

The rear seats fold up, resulting in 55.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The rugged exterior, combined with its comfortable interior makes the Hummer H3 a very desirable niche SUV.

The Hummer H3 is really a tight vehicle that communicates the responsive feel of the road on smooth and rough terrain. The welded, ladder-type frame is based on the Chevrolet Colorado, and makes handling the Hummer H3 much tighter than it should.

There are no rattles to be heard that may be otherwise expected of a more utilitarian vehicle. The Hummer H3 has bridged the gap between rural trails and urban living.


Powering the 2007 Hummer H3 is a lighter 3.5-liter, 220 horsepower engine that combines performance with fuel economy. The 2007 H3 achieves 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg highway.

A five-speed manual transmission is standard and the optional four-speed automatic delivers an impressive 225 pound-feet of low-end torque at 2800 rpm. By offering more torque lower in the rpm, you can feel more precise control for off-road handling in hard to reach places. The 17-inch high wheel clearance further makes it possible for the Hummer H3 to go where few SUVs dare to roam.

The only downside to owning the 2007 Hummer H3 is that the four-wheel drive is permanently engaged and the stability control does not come as standard equipment, but is available as an option.

The 2007 Hummer H3 comes equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual front airbags, and an exceptionally strong frame for enhanced safety. Head curtain and side airbags can also be purchased as options.

When Papa Smurf and his team returned from their Napa outing, they were refreshed and exhilarated to get back to work in their Hamlet by the Bay. The leaner (4980 lbs) H3 is 4.9 inches shorter than the competitive GMC Envoy and considerably more refined than the Toyota Highlander, Cadillac Escalade and the Ford Explorer.

Proud to be a truck, the totally awesome 2007 Hummer H3 is radically engineered to turn the tide of cooling SUV demand.

By Saurabh Sharma

In his second year of Supercross, Tommy Hahn is hoping to put to good use what he learned last year. And from the looks of how fast he was going in his video last week, we think he has a pretty good chance.

By Saturday the traveling circus known as the Amp'd Mobile AMA Supercross Series will be in St Louis, and while the Supercross Class title contenders—Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart—will still be battling it out for their title, there will be some new faces ready to race in the West Coast Supercross Lites Class. Along with other riders, one of those new faces is Team Sobe/Samsung Wireless/Honda's Tommy Hahn.

Last year, in his rookie season, Tommy contested the West Coast Lites Series and due to some bad luck didn’t finish out the eight rounds of the series. This year, in order to be a contender for the Championship, he is looking to put that all behind him and put to good use what he learned. With a stacked field, to say the least, we decided to find out how things have been going for this young rider from Kansas, and from the looks of things, it sounds like Tommy is one rider to look for to be a front-runner week in and week out.

What have you been up to while the West Coast Season has been going on?

I've just mainly been riding a lot, and putting in as many laps as I can. I've also been training really hard. I have a good trainer this year, which helps a lot, and I've lost 15 pounds since last year. I'm ready to work hard.

Since last year was your rookie season, what have you learned from it that you are taking into this upcoming season?

I've learned that consistency is really important, and even if you're only going to get one point in a race, then it pays to get it, because that one point can matter a lot. I just want to give it 110 percent every race, because my team gives 110 percent for me. It's the least that I can do for them in return. They help me out a lot, so I want to do good for them.
Tommy has been spending a considerable amount of time at the Honda test track lately, and the new lights at the track allow him to even ride at night. When they unexpectedly shut off, though, it's no fun. Photo courtesy of Honda
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What happened to you last year towards the end of the Nationals?

The last race at Glen Helen I just came out of a corner, tangled up with another rider, and got slammed down into the face of another jump and my shoulder popped out. It scared me, but I already had a contract for this year, so I didn’t rush it, and I don’t really think I could have ridden that day even if I wanted to. I let it heal up and then came back to ride Supercross to get ready for the U.S. Open. Then about a week and a half before the U.S. Open I slide out in a turn and tore up my knee a little bit. I tore up my PCL and had to have reconstructive surgery on it. I stayed up at Doctor Ting's office for about three months, and did rehab on it. As it turned out, it worked out well and he got me back riding really fast, but it definitely wasn’t the way I wanted to end my rookie season. In the beginning I had an injury when I broke my leg during a break in the West Coast series. Combine that with the injuries at the end of the season, and it makes for a disappointing year. I'm looking to turn things around this year, though, so hopefully I can do that.

What do you think of your competition going into the start of the season?

There are going to be some tough guys. (Davi) Millsaps and (Broc) Hepler are always tough. They are strong riders and just getting up on the box every week would be really good for me. That way I would have a really good shot for the title at the end of the season. I'm just going to take it one race at a time, though, and I really don’t have any expectations coming into the first race in St Louis. I just want to test myself and see how I do. Of course, the goal is to get on the podium, but realistically leaving the first race I want to be in the top-five. I'll be happy if that happens.

So would it be safe to say, that your overall goal for this season would be to be more consistent than last?

Yeah, for sure more consistent than last season, since last season I wasn’t very consistent. As long as I'm up on the box every week I think I will have a good shot at the Championship.

Where have you been testing to get prepared for the season?

There are a couple Supercross tracks that I have been to. We go to Racetown 395 sometimes, Competitive Edge also has a Supercross track. I actually haven't ridden that track, but I hear it's really good. Mostly, I just ride at the Honda test track. It's a good track and it's pretty challenging. I think it's a good track for testing.

It looks like you guys have some new lights set up for riding at night. What's it like riding under the lights at the Honda track?

Night riding is awesome. It's lit up really well, and it kind of helps you get the perspective of riding at night. It's nice to be able to do that, because it helps me get used to riding at night, which is when Supercross races take place. We usually come out here at about five in the afternoon and stay until about 9:30 or 10:00 at night. It's cool; I like it.

Have you ever had the lights shut off while you were riding?

(Laughs) Yeah, one time we were out here riding and the gas in the generator ran out, and the lights just completely shut off while I was in the middle of the track. I didn’t know if I was going to go off another jump and into a fence or what was going to happen. It was pretty bad, but that's only happened once. Hopefully, it won't happen anymore.

By Brendan Lutes

(ARA) - Even with gas at $4 a gallon, many people will soon be hitching up their boats, trailers and RVs and hitting the road for summer vacations. Catching up on the latest safety features will help these weekend warriors get out on the open road quickly and safely.

Before you set out on your first summer excursion towing a trailer or fifth-wheel it’s a good idea to practice turning, stopping and backing up your trailer in an area without heavy traffic or distractions. Because trailer wheels are closer to the inside of a turn than the wheels of the tow vehicle, they are more likely to hit or ride up over curbs. Make sure to take turns wide as corners, curbs and curves will require greater clearance.

Another safety tip to remember is to operate the vehicle at moderate speeds and avoid sudden starts, stops and turns to reduce trailer sway, allowing for adequate reaction time.

The phenomenon commonly referred to as “trailer sway” occurs when a trailer being towed by a car, truck or van begins to sway or swing back and forth as it is being pulled. Severe instances of trailer sway can cause drivers to lose control. Cautious driving can help minimize trailer sway, and now new technology from truck and SUV manufacturers helps to virtually eliminate this occurrence.

“Trailer Sway Control is helping people who tow trailers achieve an enhanced level of control of their load,” says Steve Kozak, Ford Motor Company’s chief safety engineer.

Trailer Sway Control helps determine from the side to side motion of the vehicle if the trailer is swaying and takes measures -- such as applying precise braking or reduced engine torque -- to help get both the vehicle and trailer under control.

For a video demonstration of the trailer sway control feature visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hn2YMS0o5c.

Before drivers can drive with these safety tips in mind, they have to first deal with hitching a trailer, RV or boat to their vehicle, which often calls for more than one set of eyes to help guide the driver.

When backing up to either a parking spot or to hitch a trailer use slight movements of the steering wheel to adjust direction. Exaggerated movements will cause excessive movement to the trailer. If you experience difficulty, pull forward and realign the tow vehicle and trailer or start again.

Automotive companies have developed some features such as a reverse camera system to help trailer, boat or RV towers get to their destination quickly.

For a video demonstration of the reverse camera system visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dby8lTnCOmo.

One final bit of advice would be to create a safety check-list before you begin any traveling with your RV, boat or trailer. Below are some pre-departure check-list items:

* Check and correct tire pressure on the tow vehicle and trailer, as low pressure hurts not only the drive of the vehicle but also the fuel economy.

* Make sure the wheel lug nuts/bolts on the tow vehicle and trailer are tightened to the correct torque.

* Be sure the hitch, coupler, draw bar, and other equipment that connect the trailer and tow vehicle are properly secured and adjusted.

* Check that wiring is properly connected -- not touching the road, but loose enough to make turns without disconnecting or damaging the wires.

* Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working.

* Verify that the brakes on the tow vehicle and trailer are operating correctly.

* Check that all items are securely fastened on and in the trailer.

* Be sure the trailer jack, tongue support and any attached stabilizers are raised and locked in place.

* Check load distribution to make sure the tow vehicle and trailer are properly balanced front to back and side to side.

* Check side- and rear-view mirrors to make sure you have good visibility.

* Check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels.

* Make sure you have wheel chocks and a jack stand.

With precautions made to ensure safety while traveling with a trailer, boat or RV, motorists are ready to hit the road this summer and will be out on the water or setting up camp in no time.

By Autos

Bugatti Veyron Price

Bugatti Veyron Price

Bugatti Veyron Price

Bugatti Veyron Price