Automotive Interior

Auto Warranty Program Keeps You on the Road

admin — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 23:28:09 +0000

If you’re looking to purchase a new or new-to-you car in the near future, you need to understand what auto warranty program to get, to make sure you get the most bang for your buck.

There are essentially two different types of auto warranties available. One is the standard warranty that was provided when your car rolled off the lot. This warranty will usually run anywhere from two to five years, or up to a set amount of mileage, whichever comes first. This warranty is usually included with the purchase of the vehicle, and is non-negotiable. What you see is what you get. Make sure you take the time to read the entire warranty, and understand what is covered, and what you will be expected to take care of yourself.

The other most common form of auto warranty is the extended warranty. This is where you can end up spending way more money than you need to, if you’re not careful. An extended warranty can be purchased either when the car is initially sold, or at any time thereafter. Be warned, it will be much easier to purchase an extended warranty for your car while it is still under the manufacturer’s original warranty. Once that expires, you may have a hard time finding new coverage.

Extended coverage can be for a variable amount of time or distance – as little as six months, or as long as several years. Do your homework, and find out which duration will work best for you. How long do you plan to keep your car? If you want a longer warranty than that time frame, make sure it is transferrable to the new owner. Check to see what exactly is covered by the extended warranty – is it just drive train, or does it include all factory-installed parts? Does it include bonuses like roadside assistance?

Remember that an extended warranty can be purchased at the time you buy the car, but make sure to read the fine print. Some extended warranties start immediately, even if the current manufacturer’s warranty is still in place. And never let the salesman pressure you into getting the extended warranty. There are options to get that coverage later on, should you decide you need it.

In the end, just remember to do your research. An auto warranty program can be very confusing, if you don’t take the time to sit down and read through the fine print. Don’t assume, ask as many questions as you need to, and make sure that the plan you have is the right one for you and your car.

By: Gregory D Nelson

An Overview on How to Install Neon & LED Interior Car Lights

admin — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 13:21:26 +0000

So you’ve got your LED or Neon interior car lights, but you’re now a bit confused
as to where all the car interior neon lights and wires go?” Well fear not, we’ll
show all the “in’s & out’s” of this type of installation and the easiest way of
doing it.

It’s a good idea to disconnect the battery before installing any car light
accessories. You can do this by disconnecting the negative battery cable and
placing it to one side of the battery where it won’t touch any part of the vehicles
body. It’s also wise to have your vehicles service manual handy for information
about the specifics of the electrical system on your vehicle.

For interior car lights, the best places to mount the LED or neon tubes are under
the dash on both sides just above where your feet go, but high enough so as not
to kick the tubes or damage them. There are also many other places you can fit
them and their location is only limited by your imagination.

To operate the lights manually, your going to need a switch located near you,
so you’ll need to buy a simple “2way toggle” switch (or use the switch that
may have came with your neon/led tube kit) from your nearest custom car
accessories store. This switch will be inserted into (in-line with) the main
power wire that supplies the kit with 12Volt power.

Choose if you want your interior car lights to turn on automatically when the
headlights are turned on, or if you want to control the lights separately with a
“toggle” switch.

If you want the neon or LED tubes to light up automatically when the headlights
are turned on, then you will need to find a wire under the dash near the
steering column. This wire you are looking for is normally Red or Yellow, and it’s
supplying the “headlight control switch” with 12V power – you’re going to have
to “tap” into this wire to light-up your neon lights when the headlights are
turned on.

If you want to be able to control the interior car lights separately from the
headlights, (best option) then there’s two ways you can do this…

1) The power wire can be connected directly to the Positive side of the car
battery, or…

2) It can be connected to any 12V power wire from under the dashboard.

If you choose to tap into a power wire from behind the dash to power your interior car lights you’ll also need to
buy a “Circuit Tester” from your nearest custom car accessory store – they only
cost about $10 dollars. To use this tester is simple, it looks like a pen with an
earth wire hanging out the top of it and a clamp attached to the end of the
wire, and it has a globe inside the middle of the pen, or on its end, which lights
up when you have found power somewhere.

To complete the interior car lighting circuit – you’ll now just need to
attach the earth wire coming out from the from your led or neon tubes to the
chassis of the vehicle. You can do this in the same way as described above for
the earth wire on the tester – anywhere where there is bare steel under the
dash is always a good earth connection for your interior car lights, even if you
find a screw under the dash that is screwed into bare steel and it is holding
another wire in place as an earth, you can use this too as an earth location.
The control panel earth wire will need to be securely screwed to the chassis of the vehicle
or to any “Earth wire” to complete the power circuit.

After your “power” & “earth” connections are complete, your car interior neon
lights should now work. If they appear dull and not real bright, then be sure to
check that you have made GOOD earth and POWER connections.
That’s it, you’re all done – now all you have to do is put any plastic panels back
into place that you may have removed, pack your tools up, and then head off to
show your friends what a great look you’ve just created on your car – Enjoy!

Please see our “More-In-depth” and step-by-step picture illustrated instructions on the How to install page listed below.

By: Antonio T Gabellone

Jeep – The Old Is New Once Again

admin — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 13:07:44 +0000

The Chrysler Group’s Jeep brand will prove enthusiasts that the old charm could be rekindled to make it new once again. Jeep’s pool of engineers has redesigned the new Liberty with strong ties to the traditional model.

To some brands, the classic versions of their product lines are better. This is true even with Jeep. This is why the automaker, the American division of DaimlerChrysler AG, has redrawn the 2008 Jeep Liberty to radiate a more classic Jeep aura and form.

The vehicle, which epitomizes the characteristics of a lean and mean machine of more traditional Jeeps, has debuted at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). Behind the innovative features of the new Liberty is the distinctly classic look and feel. And Jeep purists are glad to hear the news. As a fact, even those who are not Jeep enthusiasts are pleased with the changes. “Our objective was to refine the design and stay true to the core of the brand,” said John Sgalia, the director of Jeep Design.

The redesigned Liberty, scheduled to hit dealerships this fall, entertained several elements that vaulted the auto into a top seller small SUV. Jeep’s designers straightened out some of the vehicle’s curves but retained its quirks.

“There are two types of Jeeps, modern and classic,” explained Ralph Gilles, Jeep’s top designer. “We wanted the Liberty to mature but still remain playful,” said Gilles, who designed the interior for the original Liberty that debuted in 2002. “The open top was really an engineering tour de force.”

The Sky Slide, an industry exclusive, works like a giant sunroof creating an open space 33-inches by 41-inches, Liberty engineers said. “It’s four times the size of a standard sunroof,” said Rick Reuter, the chief engineer who worked on the Jeep Liberty. “But it still operates the same way for a driver.”

The roof opens electronically, gathering the canvas at either end. When the roof is completely open, passengers in the second row will be able to enjoy open sky ride. The automaker spent several months testing the roof to ensure that it would not leak and would seal tightly when closed. “Jeep has always been about being in the open air, and this roof is one way to give our customers that,” said John Plecha, Jeep’s marketing director.

The new Liberty looks substantially bigger than its ancestors. The automaker has increased its overall length by two inches, expanded the cargo space by three inches, and extended the wheelbase by two inches. The spare tire, once on the rear hatch, was transferred behind the rear axle.

Other features of the redesigned Liberty include the powerful 3.7-liter V-6, new front and rear suspension mated to EBC rotors and other refinements to provide comfy and reliable ride. The new Liberty finishes Jeep’s lineup, Plecha noted.

By: Anthony Fontanelle

Your Vehicle Can Look Like New With Auto Reconditioning!

admin — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 04:02:00 +0000

Many car owners lead a very busy life, which means that usually something gets a little neglected. Most of the time that something that gets neglected is their vehicles. Our Vehicles are very important to most car owners since they get us to all the places we need and want to go. But usually that is the one thing that we say we will tend to later, but somehow later never comes. The end result is usually a vehicle that is in less perfect condition and we are unhappy with. So, if your vehicle has suffered a little due to lack of time or whatever else you can do something about it. Find out how your vehicle can look like new with auto reconditioning.

Auto reconditioning is also known as minor auto body repair. A skilled auto body reconditioning specialist will use the latest skills and practices to repair your vehicle using the materials already on your vehicle. Usually the repairs are completed within two to six hours, which is not a lot of time considering the work that can be completed. Also most repairs are affordable, and most shops will even work with your insurance as well. Auto reconditioning encompasses body and paint repair, dent removal, scratches to the paint, interior repair, glass repairs and much more. You may be surprised just how great of a job they can do with your vehicle.

A preview of some services that are offered are paintless dent removal, interior repair, paint touch up, auto detailing, wheel rim repair, windshield repair, bumper repair, auto body repair, headlight restoration, and more. Some auto reconditioning shops will even offer additional services that will protect your vehicle from further damage like window tint and the 3M clear bra.

The first step to take is to find an auto reconditioning shop that produces a good quality work and also has a fair price to go along with that. You will want to make sure that you choose shops that have established a good name for themselves. Also you should feel comfortable with the auto body specialists who work there. If you get a bad feeling don’t choose that shop. You can get estimates for the work at all the shops, they are usually free. You can get the estimate in person, by phone and sometimes online. Once you have decided which shop you want to use they will set up a time for you to come and get started working on your vehicle.

Most times when you get your vehicle back after auto reconditioning it is nearly impossible to tell that there was ever damage in the first place. You will be impressed with what they can do using the latest skills and a few materials, if any.

So, your vehicle can look like new with auto reconditioning which will save you thousands by not buying a new vehicle! Find an auto reconditioning shop that can get your vehicle looking its best for you in no time today!

By: Samantha Mccartney

OEM Seat Covers to Revamp Vehicle’s Interior

admin — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 01:44:37 +0000

Do you know that you can find seat covers that are made for any type of vehicle? Actually, there are different types of materials as well as designs that could be used for your vehicle’s seat covers. Conversely, before you look for the car seat covers that you may want to look into may already be obtainable for your vehicle makes a model. You may figure out that there are already custom covers for your seats and it will surely come in a wide-range of designs. However, the most dependable seat covers that you can trust are actually from the original equipment manufacturers (OEM).

Furthermore, there are diverse companies that produce wide assortment of car seat covers made from all of the types of materials. From leather covers to the vital cloth style of cover, you can definitely find it. You would also be able tailor your covers to fit your individual taste. Some people may have their names or initials embroidered into the seat cover while the others like to have a specific logo or design on it. The potential are never ending especially when it is about to the customization of the seat covers of the interior of your car.

The leather types that are available for you to use on your OEM cover can differ in dominance. The high quality ones will be inclined to be more expensive than the ones that are low in quality. Generally, it is supposed that the after market covers that can be purchased over the Web will give you the better quality rather than what you could get from the oem dealers. This is because, in most cases, seat covers that are leather that you obtained from the factory dealers are only leather in the inserted part of the seat.

Furthermore, the best part about OEM covers, of your car is the ability to refurbish the whole car with one theme or a combo of color. You will not only trip up on the accessories like steering wheels covers, floor mats, dashboard covers, storage garnishes and the decals.

You have to remember always that the main task of the car seat covers is to look after the deterioration that may happen everyday. You may also want it to have a support that will not allow leaks to soak through your unique seating material. Additionally, you may want it to fit well. It will not also look only bad but the cause of having spots on your oem seat cover materials. Make a fashion statement as well as to protect the investment of your vehicle.

By: Joseph B Chambers

Ford Mondeo To Debut At Geneva Motor Show

admin — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:25:11 +0000

The all-new Mondeo from Ford Motor Co. returns to the automotive scene with the aim of making a difference. This time around, the Ford Mondeo will be seen possessing more daring kinetic design, flowing energy, and a striking totality. These qualities could be witnessed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show during the debut of the car.

“The Ford Mondeo has always been acclaimed for its strong attributes, particularly its driving dynamics and safety performance,” said Steve Adams, the Vehicle Line Director of the Large & Luxury Cars team for Ford of Europe. “With this remarkable new model we’ve taken these qualities a step further and enhanced the performance of the car in almost all aspects as well as transforming its design and quality.”

The new Ford Mondeo sedan benefits from Ford Motor Company’s Global Shared Technologies initiative, sharing many elements of its core architecture with the Ford S-MAX, 2007 Car of the Year, and the new generation Ford Galaxy. However, the new Mondeo is an individual model in its own right.

The Ford Mondeo keeps the traditional Mondeo strength but adds remarkable features like limousine-like comfort and NVH characteristics, ambient interior lighting, and soft-touch materials. “We wanted to create an emotional connection with the new Mondeo that would attract people from an aesthetic point of view even before they appreciate its technology,” noted Martin Smith who holds the position as the Executive Director of Design of Ford of Europe. “Our goal was to make people feel impressed when they see the car, and ultimately want to own one.”

Aside from the stylish yet rugged stance of the Ford Mondeo, the car also boasts driver-focused technologies like keyless entry and keyless start with ‘Ford Power’ start button, new Ford Convers+ Human Machine Interface (HMI) instrument display, Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control and Hill Launch Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

According to some critics, what made Mondeo impressive is the list of its remarkable range of auto equipment that includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Ford Easyfuel capless refuelling with fuel inhibitor to prevent misfuelling, ‘follow-me-home’ lights, air conditioning, trip computer, and an auxiliary audio input socket in the glove box to deliver external audio device connection.

To some, what made the sedan fascinating to drive is the real driving quality that it offers. This is the Ford Mondeo’s integral attribute. The Ford Mondeo was also engineered to bring out the best in the old version without compromising safety. The automaker’s enhanced Intelligent Protection System provides the up-to-date driver assistance and occupant protection technologies. The features include driver’s knee airbag, full length curtain airbags, and horizontal stroking steering column.

What is found under the hood is a range of captivating powertrains that include four Duratorq TDCi diesel and five Duratec petrol engines. The power output range from 110 PS to 220 PS, including a new 2.3-litre, 161 PS Duratec HE unit coming late this year. A new Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission will also be available late this year. The engine complements the proven Durashift 5- and 6-speed manual transmission, efficient EBC brake rotors, brakes and suspension.

With the new Ford Mondeo sedan, the automaker intends to prove that the old version could be completely transformed to create a striking difference. From the outside to the inside, the car epitomizes performance, flexibility, safety, and a new level of auto craftsmanship.

By: Anthony Fontanelle

Tips to Remember Before Purchasing Honda Elements

admin — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 21:01:44 +0000

The Element is Honda’s entry-level crossover sport utility vehicle that will surely appeal to the active and the adventurous. Though the versatile four-passenger Element has ample space for passengers as well as cargo, it appears very compact in size and has all the personal car-like driving features.

The Honda Element is available in both the types – front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. There is a choice of three trim levels: the LX, the EX and the SC. All trim levels are equipped with a 166-hp 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, mated to available five-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

The LX is equipped with 16-inch steel wheels, a CD player and air conditioning, while the EX has further features like alloy wheels, satellite radio, MP3 capability, an auxiliary input jack and a convertible centre console with removable cooler box. The sporty SC comes with a monochromatic exterior, custom grille, 18-inch alloy wheels, unique seat upholstery and piano black interior trim elements. The Honda Element 2009 has exterior and interior styling changes, as well as new standard and optional equipment.

As regards the 2010 Element, some feel it looks less elegant, but shoppers who look more for utility will like its performance. Passenger comfort is not a priority with the 2010 Element, but it succeeds in cargo-hauling and versatility.

Standard safety features on every Honda Element however include anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, vehicle stability assist with traction control, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitor. The 2010 Element has all the safety features and scores over the 2009 Element.

Coming to features, the 2010 Element caters both to buyers who want to keep it basic and also satisfies those who want a few more extras. If you’re considering the most affordable 2010 Element, the LX trim, check the interior as you sacrifice a few of the bins and special materials that might make the inside more useful. Market analysts agree that if aesthetics is not the issue, Honda Element 2010 is this the most efficient way to get from one place to another.

Once you drive a Honda Element, your senses will tell you there are few vehicles to match Honda Element when it comes to smooth riding. The Element’s supportive seats are worthy of a far more expensive vehicle. In fact, air vents, switches and HVAC controls are of high quality.

It can be said, without fear of contradiction, that the Element is an extremely safe vehicle, complete with top class crash ratings, vehicle stability assist and all the latest braking features. The Element has changed little since it was first introduced in 2003, and the basic features continue for 2010.

The Element’s car-like handling and smooth engine has earned universal acclaim. But the fact is, a top-heavy feel and sluggish acceleration prevent the SUV from being a contender for best in class. The 2010 Honda Element has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. How to buy Honda Element can be answered by suggesting the following five steps:

1. Get quotes from Honda dealers and compare rates

2. Search used Honda Element listings

3. Compare with other cars by studying the reviews

4. See Affordable Compact SUVs rankings

5. Find the best available insurance rates for the Honda Element

By: Jacob Oliver

Necessary Items to Detail Automobiles

admin — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 16:55:41 +0000

When starting a car detailing business, or just detailing your own personal car, there are a few car detailing supplies that are needed to get the job done properly. The first step in detailing a car is give the car a basic wash, preferable with something that will strip any residual wax that the car may already have on it, that way you start your detailing from scratch.

Now it is time to start detailing, and some needed car detailing supplies to have on hand are:

-sponges
-microfiber towels
-A good paste or liquid wax
-wax applicator pads
-drying towels
-detailing brushes for the interior
-carpet cleaner
-shop vacuum
-interior plastic dressings
-tire dressing

Many of these items can be obtained from automotive specialty stores or local hometown stores that have an automotive section. Many new products are available to make car detailing easier as well as to give a better shine. Manufacturers of liquid wax now offer “synthetic wax” which is very easy to remove and gives a deep shine. Wax typically should be applied at least twice a year, one before summer and once before winter.

Cotton towels are now being replaced with newer microfiber towels, which are said to not leave scratches on painted surfaces. Wax applicator pads are now available in both cotton and microfiber styles. A good set of quality 100% cotton or microfiber drying towels should be used to thoroughly dry the car before applying any wax. These towels should be kept for automobile use only and washed separately from household towels.

Having a proper area to clean and detail automobiles will make the job go by much more efficiently. It is best to wax/detail a car under a shaded area, with a garage being the ideal place. Working indoors will prevent unwanted contaminants such as dust from falling on the car while you are working on it. A person with a car detailing business should have multiple garage bays, that way more than one car can be worked on at once. It is also to have storage racks and shelving to put your entire car detailing supplies in one area so you know where everything is at and how much you have left of it.

A shop vac for cleaning the interior of vehicles will come in handy for picking up large particles inside the car. A car business may have several heavy duty coin operated vacuums by their business for self serve customers.

There are several detailing supplies on the market and it is best to try them out to find the right combination of price and quality for your liking. An individual may spend more money on products while a business may focus more on getting product at a lower price, as long it meets the company’s personal requirements. Repeat customers are very important to a car detailing business, and with many happy customers may come expansion into other areas as well as franchising your business.

By: Edward Dean

Personalizing Your Ride With Auto Accessories

admin — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 04:39:33 +0000

There is a huge selection of auto parts and accessories that you can use to personalize your vehicle. We spend a lot of time in our vehicles, so it make sense to make it as comfortable and appealing as possible. The possibilities are almost endless, so where should you start?

It is always wise to look for the most value. I will affectionately define value as “a lot of bang for the buck.” How can we get the most value out of customizing our vehicles? I like to start with the interior for several reasons. 1) You spend a lot of time in your car. 2) Interior accessories are typically less expensive than exterior accessories. 3) The results of some well chosen interior accessories can drastically improve your driving experience.

We can begin with some dash trim. There are lots of varieties out there, ranging from carbon fiber, wood grain, aluminum, and vinyl. Vinyl kits are relatively inexpensive, and can really complement the exterior of the car if you choose to match colors. You can also choose a vinyl dash kit that has a carbon fiber, aluminum or wood grain look to it for a fraction of the cost. This upgrade alone will create a new and exciting environment. These kits can be purchased for around $100.00.

Next, you can look at shift knobs and pedals. These are also a cool upgrade, and come in a variety of styles. Match these to your dash trim for an added appeal. Shift knobs can come lit with L.E.Ds for a really dramatic look. Pedals and shift knobs can both be found for less than $100.00 for both.

The next place we can turn is to the gauges. There are also some good options here, such as reverse white face gauges, digital gauges, and designer gauges. Keep the existing color scheme going and you will find yourself driving a new exotic version on your old car.

With all these in place, lets turn our attention to some aluminum floor mats. These floor mats can really add value to your vehicle by giving you a custom finish and protecting your existing carpet. Once these are installed, put a little neon underneath the dash to glow off of the floor mats. Match the neon colors to your dash trim and other accessories, and sit back and enjoy what will feel like a new ride!

The interior modifications are by far the most personally gratifying since we spend a lot of time in our cars. Start with your exterior colors, or an accent color on the inside, and create a color scheme. The results will give you a majestic modification.

By: Matt Brooks

Saturn Aura: Concept Car No More

admin — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:21:35 +0000

This is a concept car from the Saturn Corporation. A mid-sized sedan, this is the future vehicle Saturn Aura. Starting this summer, the production of the Saturn Aura would commence. This sedan would then be built on a long wheelbase that shares the same chassis with other vehicles such as the Pontiac G6, the Chevrolet Malibu, the Saab 9-3, and the Opel Vectra. Designed through the collective efforts of Ryan Vaughan, Tim Kozub, and Ed Welburn, the Saturn Aura would be making its debut this summer for sure and would be the start of the Saturn line of vehicles’ dramatic change in style and power.

This concept car from Saturn was introduced to the public this January. This vehicle has been specifically designed so as to replace the Saturn L-Series. The Saturn Aura uses the Epsilon platform, yet this platform is also used by other vehicles that are quite affiliated with General Motors, as listed above. With this long Epsilon wheelbase, the Saturn Aura would be sporting ample legroom for a sedan in the midsize division. This vehicle would also sport 19-inch chrome wheels, along with a new front end, and the very distinct grille that is found on each and every Saturn vehicle since the Saturn Aura is no exception. This vehicle also will hold and feature a four-paneled panoramic glass roof which is very much unlike the glass roof that comes with the Pontiac G6. As per the Saturn Aura’s interior, Dave Rand, General Motor’s executive director of interiors claims, “The interior of the Saturn Aura epitomizes GM’s global design approach to brand revitalization. Seven GM Design studios from around the world used technology that allowed them to contribute to product designs that will make up Saturn’s new portfolio. The result is seamless connectivity between the interior and exterior.”

This mid-sized sedan is made to be top of the line and is expected to boast around 250 horsepower with the 3.6 liter DOHC V6 engine from General Motors. More likely, a five-speed automatic would also be used for this one. It will also feature a variety of standard features for safety that could include electronic stability control, side airbags and head curtain airbags. It has a European influence as per its exterior and a character that makes it fun to drive. Also, the exterior of the Saturn Aura is considered to be fluid, muscular, and very powerful. It holds bold projector beams with trapezoidal headlamps. These are flanked by a new rendition of the Saturn chrome bar. Its front end has a distinctive mesh grille and circular fog lamps. Helping in cooling the engine compartment are horizontal hood extractors also punctuate the concept’s styling up front.

Jill Lajdziak, Saturn’s general manager speaks about the Saturn Aura, “The Aura is a sneak peak at a new generation of emotionally compelling Saturn vehicles. It’s the kind of vehicle that perfectly supports Saturn’s firm commitment to provide great customer service combined with equally outstanding vehicles.”

The Saturn Aura is fun to drive and is promised to provide an excellent performance that is the trademark of Saturn vehicles.

By: Terry Brown