Types of Cars

How To Choose Your Ideal Car

At some point in life, an individual will think about buying a vehicle, most notably those people who go on long commutes using public or mass transportation. However, owning a car nowadays is more of an expense than a necessity. Cars are also quite expensive. Thus, choosing a car is critical for those on a limited budget. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or a veteran in vehicle ownership, here are a few tips to consider when selecting the car that works best for you.

Functionality is the most crucial aspect when selecting a vehicle. As a future car owner, you are the best person to assess the functionality requirements depending on your daily routine. Take into account the necessary features that you would like to have in a vehicle. How many passengers will you usually carry? What is your typical mileage? What kind of road will your car drive on? Also, you must list down your needed add-ons such as a dash camera, leather seating, and multimedia devices. Since you will be using the vehicle often, make sure that these features are included.

While it is nice to own a car with all sorts of gizmos, you have to stop and think about the next important consideration – budget. Again, cars are expensive. Larger vehicles will require more cost to repair and maintain. Accessories are just as costly. Typical prices of cars averaged to almost $40,000 in 2018, excluding ownership costs. If the budget is an issue for you, then you must consider cutting out some of the features you wanted earlier. Only include the necessities so that you will not default on the loan in the future. Remember that you will be paying for your car for several years. If possible, buy a vehicle that is scalable for future upgrades on the engine, exterior, or even on multimedia features.

After allotting a certain amount for your car purchase, you must now research your target brands. Each car brand has a reputation and specialty for specific lines of vehicles. After narrowing down the brands, search for model reviews to check whether issues are present for that model. It is essential to research the item you will buy, especially if the price reaches five digits.

Lastly, do a test drive using your chosen car. During the test, drive in locations that will simulate your everyday travel. Check if its suspension system undulates while running. Test its essential functions, such as brakes, in a safe area.

Although it seems that choosing a car is tedious work, it is necessary and worth the hassle. It is imperative to make the best decision when selecting your vehicle. Remember, you are only a few steps away from owning your first car, so getting it right is the top priority.

 

Transmission

Types of Car Transmissions Every Driver Knows

For a driver, driving is more than just the skill to maneuver a car. Every driver knows it’s mostly all about the driving experience. The history of automobiles would tell of cars operating with a manual clutch since olden days. In recent times, however, modern cars have been reinvented with different transmission types for different kinds of drivers. Each of these transmissions has its upsides and downsides. Regardless of this, the kind of driver searching for the driving experience is a big factor. Discussed below are the different types of car transmissions—how they work and each of their pros and cons.

Manual Transmission. This is by far classic of all car transmissions. It is designed with a three-pedal foot piece, consisting of the friction clutch, the brake, and the gas pedal. These pedals are connected to a gear-selector at the right hand of the driver, consisting of first up to fifth accelerators, and the reverse gear. In some countries, the driver side is at the right, so the gear selector is maneuvered using the left hand. In Western countries, however, lesser people know how to operate or use the classic manual, as most car models nowadays operate on an automatic transmission. Despite its sub-popularity, the manual is very economical in fuel, since drivers can adjust the gear based on the assumed speed. Due to the simplicity of its mechanism, it is also easier to repair and less costly. And for most driving enthusiasts, the shifting of gears using blending and timing provides an all-time excellent driving experience.

Automatic Transmission. The modern roads are, in a majority, filled with automatic transmission cars. Unlike the manual, the automatic only has a two-pedal foot piece, consisting of the brakes and accelerator. Changing gears does not require the use of a clutch, and most of the time, the gear is only stationary at one of the several choices. A torque converter is connected to the Electronic Control Unit, allowing for precise control of the car. Automatics are at an advantage for a simpler and smoother driving experience without changing gears constantly. However, due to the complexity of its mechanism, automatics are more prone to failure and also take up a lot of fuel.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT transmission does not have any gears at all but instead operates on belts and pulleys. The car’s computer system controls these belts and pulleys and adjusts them accordingly to the driving circumstance. Since the CVT’s mechanism is less complex, it is less frequently prone to failure and is good for economizing fuel. Despite these advantages, the CVT with smooth and seamless acceleration may not offer a worthwhile driving experience for most driving enthusiasts. Plus, the engine makes much noise during acceleration.

The different transmissions used in automobiles all offer unique features. With its variety, one may be more appealing to one kind of driver, while another may not be as appealing. Whatever those reasons are, there is not one kind of car transmission which is a perfect fit for all sorts of drivers. Efficiency, maintenance, practicality and driving experience are all important factors every driver needs to consider.

Tire and Wheels

Tips on How to Choose the Right Car Tires

Buying car tires is not difficult; it’s getting the perfect tires for your car which can be complicated. If you make the wrong choice, you can hobble the performance of your car and its capability to tackle all weather types. Car tires should be replaced after every 3 or 4 years. Here are tips on how to pick the right car tires:

  1. Original Equipment (OE) Tires verses A New Brand

It’s always good to consider buying the same type of tires the manufacturer made for your vehicle. If you like how your car rides and grips, then, purchase the original equipment. Original equipment means that the manufacturer of your specific vehicle commended those tires as a standard for use on your particular car.

Some car manufacturers like Mercedes, BMW, and Audi equip their cars with tires specially prepared for their brand. The tires’ sidewalls have specific OE markings. Below is a table or original equipment markings by car brand:

MO1= AMG

AO- Audi

RO1= QUATTRO

MO= Mercedes

N0, N2, N4, N1, N4= Porsche

It is highly recommended that you replace your vehicle tires with those with the required OE marking. It’s the most straightforward alternative since those tires are designed for your type of car and will fit perfectly.

  1. Type of Tire

– All-season tires- They are very popular since they can be used throughout the year without having to replace them. They offer modest traction and grip on ice plus functional cooperation of wet and dry grip.

– Winter tires- They’re made of pliable rubber compounds which work best in very cold temperatures. They have more slits and deeper tread which break the ice & bite into the snow. Since they’re not made for use throughout the year, you’ll have to swap them with summer tires when winter draws near.

– Summer tires- They’re perfect for sports cars. They have a good grip on very dry roads and in warm temperatures at very high speeds. The supple rubber compound doesn’t offer good traction in areas with temperatures of less than 40 degrees and on snowy surfaces.

  1. Tire Size

Look for the placard on your driver’s side door which shows the size of tires which perfectly fit your car. The string of letters and numbers denotes the width, height, and diameter of your tire. The new tires you purchase should have the exact dimensions as those indicated by the manufacturer of your car.

The placard reads something like P215/ 60R16 94T. The last number (16) is the diameter of the wheel. 94 is the load index (the maximum weight each of the tires can hold). T stands for the speed rating. This is the maximum speed of the tire in connection with the load index.

  1. Handling & Comfort

Choose the tires which are not only the correct size but also those which optimize the handling of your car and its breaking capability. You can choose tires that minimize noise on the road and offer a comfy ride.

Yes, you can find a lot of good quality tires in the market, but when it comes to choosing what is right for your car, it takes careful consideration of the factors mentioned above because not all popular brands of tires are the ones made for your car.

Suspension & Steering

Everything you Need to Know about Car Suspensions

The invention of cars has paved the way to increase existing knowledge of engines and control systems. At the time, state-of-the-art engineering was poured onto the first car’s design to run on steam power while carrying its weight and its passengers’. Such ingenuity can be attributed to the various mechanisms that make up our vehicles up to this day. One of the systems that connect the main body to the wheels (enabling relative motion) is none other than the vehicle’s suspension system.The suspension system accomplishes its function through different springs, linkages, and shock absorbers which enable the engine to transmit circular force onto its wheels. A correct compromise must be found to adjust the road surface handling and the ability to insulate undulations. Aside from road handling, the system must also ensure that the tires are always in contact with the road to even out ground forces acting on the vehicle. The suspension system is mainly implemented to protect the passengers and luggage from accidents caused by vibrations when the tires are moving.

Adjusting the components of the suspension system will enable the vehicle to have added capabilities concerning cargo and insulation. For instance, heavier springs must be used on a car which carries heavy loads to prevent it from collapsing. A lot of calculations are involved in insulating a vehicle’s cargo from its wheels to avoid undulations; factors such as weight transfer of the load during acceleration, cornering, and braking must be carefully considered.

Due to its crucial functions, a faulty suspension system can give rise to several problems which can have an immediate effect on a vehicle’s ride quality. The most common problem is the uneven alignment of the wheels, causing the car’s one side to be lower than the other. The misalignment may be caused by uneven tire pressure, defective tie rods, or a sticking brake caliper. A dysfunctional suspension can also disable the capacity to isolate from road bumps, making the car shake even from the tiniest road imperfections. Worn shock absorbers cause it; these absorbers have special fluids for dampening vibrations. The driver may also find it challenging to perform even essential functions such as steering if the suspension is busted. Even at low speeds, the vehicle tends to slip when steering.

With this information, it is evident that a car’s suspension system is vital to its regular operation. Hence, every car owner must perform specific steps to care for this system, including regular tire rotation every 5,000 miles. Owners must also check tire and spring pressures to ensure that the wheels remain in contact with the road. The car must undergo routine maintenance to prevent further degradation of the car suspension. The maintenance will also check for other conditions that can affect the suspension. Also, make sure that even before your car’s maintenance schedule, you must always be aware of the various signs of suspension problems so that you can attend to the issue right away.

 

Routine Maintenance

The Importance and Benefits of Car Routine Maintenance

Vehicles are considered as expensive assets. From its hefty base price to the expenses that follow after purchasing one, it is expected that getting a car requires a lot of money. Most car owners forget about car maintenance and the wonders it can do for them. Here are some of the benefits we can get from routine maintenance of our cars.

As mentioned previously, owning a vehicle is expensive mostly because of additional taxes for owning one. Repairs are just as costly as property taxes. Car repair shops charge high fees for parts and labor. You also need to pay extra for shipping fees if the car parts are not available locally. Sending your car for maintenance may cost you some money today, but it will help you save in the long run in terms of repair costs. Regular maintenance also prevents damage to existing parts and prolongs usage, which is economical since you don’t have to buy new parts often.

Replacement of old car parts, as part of your maintenance routine, can also save other parts from malfunctioning. For instance, a broken timing belt can cause your engine to breakdown. Replacing a timing belt before it breaks is much cheaper than repairing the engine. Think of maintenance as a form of insurance which will help you avoid expensive repairs, not as an additional cost.

In terms of the cost of vehicle parts, the engine is considered as the most expensive part to repair or replace. Proper maintenance can spare your engine from preventable damage and can prolong its life. Simple routine work such as oil changes or gear checks take no time at all and is quite beneficial for your engine. Having a well-maintained engine is advantageous since it can run more efficiently and has better mileage than an unmaintained engine. Since it is the main working component in a vehicle, you are expected to take proper care of it. An adequate maintenance routine does precisely that.

When you get repairs often, time is also wasted, not just money. Repair takes a lot of time since shops have many customers on queue; mechanics cannot work on your vehicle the instant you bring it for repair. Without proper car maintenance, you will experience sudden car breakdowns during long trips or busy months at work. Sticking to a maintenance schedule will enable you to plan your vehicle’s downtime and prevent sudden damage from occurring; thus you can use your car at its best condition.

A lot of car-owners consider maintenance as an additional cost and tend to disregard it, thinking that they can save some bucks from doing so. Proper upkeep, however, is more beneficial in the long run despite the additional expense. If you own a vehicle, make sure to have your most treasured asset regularly maintained so that you can use it without a problem.

Engine Repairs

Signs That you Need to Change your Car Engine’s Oil

In any engine, friction is to be expected with the various number of components within its mechanism that grind, scrape, and rub each other. Such movements are necessary to carry out the engine’s intended functionality. And with this friction comes the heat and the wear-and-tear over repeated use. It is no wonder that many consider oil to be the engine’s blood.

Engine oil plays a significant role as the lubricant of its parts. It also absorbs heat, thus preventing overheating with constant use. But one must not be confident that a few simple drops of oil can fix any engine issue. Any car owner must recognize some vital signs that their engine is in dire need of an oil change.

Being the blood of your engine, oil is expected to accumulate several particles over time. At some point, enough dirt can cause the oil to change color. In contrast to the amber color that clean oil emanates, dirty oil gives off a dark, soot-like hue. As a simple check for the oil’s color, the driver can use the dipstick as an indicator by simply looking at it as it is dipped in the oil. If the stick is still visible, the oil can still be used. If not, however, and the stick turns a dark color, then it is best to head down to your shop to change the oil. Your engine oil’s color can also be an indicator of other prevalent issues.

Aside from color, the odor is also a good indicator of an immediate oil change. Inferior oil gives off a burnt smell which can seep into the interior of your car. This smell can indicate that there is an oil leak caused by a drip on engine parts that are overheating.

A visible indicator that most drivers also tend to forget is the oil change light. Vehicles that have this light are at a great advantage since they can know right away if something is up with the engine’s fluids. The light indicates that there is not enough oil in the car’s system, or the amount is below the needed. Low oil volume can cause severe damage to the engine’s internals.

Being directly connected to the engine, the tailpipe can also be used to determine the oil’s status. The color of the smoke coming from the tailpipe is usually vapor-like if the engine is in good condition. However, once it turns gray to black in hue, it may mean internal issues in the engine such as oil leaks or unlubricated components. Such smoke is also harmful to one’s health, both for the driver and for people outside.

For those without the time to constantly check for these signs, you may opt to use mileage as your basis for changing the oil. Newly-purchased vehicles need an oil change for about every 6000 miles of the run. For older vehicles, however, you must schedule this change every 3000 miles instead since your engine is no longer as capable as it was when it was first bought.

An engine is only as good as the condition of the oil that flows through it. Watch out for these signs telling you it’s time to change oil so that your car carries on for many years to come.

 

Electronics

How Computers are Now Taking Over our Cars

From carving his first tools from stone, humanity has come a long way in terms of technology. With the invention of the wheel, we have built cars which take us to places for durations we once counted for days on foot now accessible in just minutes. With the dawn of the Internet of Things (IoT) wherein more and more of our tools connect to the internet, our cars join the fray as well. Due to the great need our vehicles to also connect online, computer-like devices are nowadays installed in the vehicle to guide with multimedia, location, and other services. In a modern sense, our cars nowadays behave similarly as a computer, or more simply – a carputer.

Basically, a carputer is a device installed onto a vehicle that adds to its functionalities for the convenience of the user. Such computers are capable of playing multimedia, providing GPS, displaying a feed from dash cameras, among others. Such capabilities are made possible because of sensors such as cameras and GPS trackers. Due to the numerous devices, the computer is connected to, it makes use of several standard interfaces including USB and Bluetooth. The computer must employ correct protocols in data communication to ensure fast transmission of data from the sensors for it to also display onto the user in a timely manner.

Currently, there are three available types of carputers for installation on any vehicle capable of having sensors:

[1] The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) infotainment systems come in the form of touchscreens that provide information on climate control, navigation, multimedia, and can access the internet.

[2] The aftermarket head units function similarly to the OEM computers but are more suited for older vehicle models. As such, they are relatively cheaper than the OEM models and make use of fewer premium components.

[3] The DIY carputers are assembled by the user himself. These custom-built computers have components carefully selected based on the user’s needs and as such, are more scalable than the other two types readily sold in the market. They can even surpass the capabilities of the OEM if the user wishes it, allowing it to be capable of more demanding multimedia such as video games.

Having carputers installed in your vehicle can have several benefits. Carputer’s multimedia capabilities make it more enjoyable for the user when using the car. Navigational tools such as GPS and map viewers can immensely help the driver when going through unfamiliar locations, obsoleting the use of confusing paper maps.

However, carputers cost a lot, and repairs are expected since they are used for long periods of time. Replacing car computers also costs a lot. The carputer and its sensors also consume car battery, taking away needed power to run the vehicle in times of emergency. Lastly, over-dependence on the carputer’s capabilities can also render the driver useless once these services suddenly become unavailable. And these situations can occur frequently since not all locations have mobile data and GPS access.

Overall, the carputer is a step forward for our automobiles into the smart era. It comes in several types depending on the user’s preferences. It can open the door to many functionalities for the vehicle, but keep in mind that the driver must not depend too much on these gadgets.  

Electrical Systems

Troubleshooting Some Common Auto Electrical Problems

Today’s cars need top of the line electrical systems to run smoothly. But except for an abnormal battery or charging system, a common electrical problem for owners are worn light bulbs. But why consult a mechanic for small issues?

This article will get you up to speed on the top electrical issues in your car and some proactive measures to work around them.

  1. The Engine Won’t Start

A top issue that is familiar to all car owners is that disappointing“clicking” when you try to get the car to start. This is not good news as it means there is no electrical juice in the battery to power the engine. Unintentional discharging, or a bad battery can drain its power, but a faulty starter may be causing the issue too.

An older car with a hefty mileage will surely have at least a few faults in its electrical system. In this case, it makes sense to avoid delay in bringing it to an auto professional.

  1. Battery Issues

If you are having issues with your battery, then its either its past five years and already slowing down, or the problem is elsewhere, such as the alternator, or some other part in the electrical system of your vehicle. It’s either you charge the battery or replace it with a new one.

  1. Blown Fuse

Similar to what happens when a fuse has blown in a house, a car’s blown fuse cuts off power from that part of the vehicle. So imagine losing power to, say, your brake lights! The electrical systems in a car are all fed by the fuse box to ensure appropriate power is getting to each system. Should a fuse trip, the system will, of course, cease functioning. Fortunately, this particular issue is relatively inexpensive to remedy. You can fix this by replacing the fuse with a new one.

  1. Faulty Alternator

A faulty or wrecked alternator could really mess up the electric supply of your car. In fact, a sudden loss of battery power while driving could mean your new car’s alternator has urgent problems. Troubleshooting may require you to remove the battery as well as the serpentine belt, start unbolting the alternator so you can remove its wirings. This is easy if you have the tools needed and if you notice that the alternator can still be saved. 

5. Loose Spark Plugs  

Plugs that need tightening will undoubtedly affect the performance of your car. If you lose power as gears shift, or twitch as if the gears aren’t making contact, then the internal combustion is faulty, and the likely suspect is usually, cabling and-or the plugs. Loose spark plugs almost always require simple tightening but make sure you tighten it as recommended by the manufacturer.

Here is a summary of what you can do when these signs of electrical problems show.

  • Take a closer look at the battery under the hood. Do you see some white stains near the terminals? This is a sign of corrosion; get rid of the debris with a brush.
  • Take time to look at the alternator belt too. Is it coming apart? If so, you need a new one. A faulty belt can be a liability in the long run.
  • Are the wires or plugs fixed properly on both ends? If not, fix this with a socket wrench.
  • Do your headlights dim from time to time? Either the alternator or the battery is a culprit.

Though not an exhaustive list, use these guidelines on common electrical problems in cars to keep your ride in top shape.

 

Brakes

Auto Brake Problems: The Signs and Solution

You can put off some of your car’s routine maintenance, but not brake servicing. Getting your brakes right is so important that it’s worth it if you need to have technicians check them or get them replaced outright. The good news is that with some studying and careful observation, you could pick up on the signs that tell you the brakes need fixing. Read on to learn more about telltale signs.

Squealing, screeching, and other wailing noises. These sounds are due to worn-out brake pads, and they require inspection. Worn pads have no place in your car because if they are left unattended, they could cause greater damage to other parts.

Intense thumping from the pedal or steering wheel. When this happens, the brake system is signaling something. It could be trapped debris in the caliper unit, worn-out brake pads or lack of lubrication. Taking time with this issue could result in your rotors (or drums) getting out of shape from the metal-on-metal contact, leading to higher repair cost.

Shaking/Wobbling Steering Wheel when Hitting the Brakes. Shaking steering wheel during braking mainly means warped rotors. Rotors are located inside the wheels. Upon hitting the brake pedal, they slow down due to the brake pads hugging them, thereby, slowing the vehicle as well.

Some advice for owners of trucks with weird shakes: try to ferret out other likely culprits for your brake issues. Expert truck mechanics can tell you more about broken suspension parts or problematic U- joints if you have those.

Bobbing or Rocking Up and Down During Abrupt Stops. Any rocking or bouncing together with some sharp braking means no brake issues. Instead, it means problems with shock absorbers.

This list of auto brake problems and how to fix them may not be comprehensive, but it gives you a quick look at the top automotive brake problems and what you can do to prevent them. There is also no need to immediately worry about cost when you become aware of an issue. Some brands of brake pads do make harmless tweets and chirp now and then. It is possible that dirt or moisture are creating superficial problems in the braking system. These are not the prime culprits for you to go after. Your detective work may likely end in simply adding some new brake fluid.

But these are short-run solutions. Why not err on the side of caution, should certain noises remain too consistent? While you are thinking how to get out of a headache like a brake issue, some annoying car technicians or mechanics will try to mislead the customer, attempting to over-price the work far more than it needs.

But even so, it is time to stop self-diagnosing symptoms or delaying brake servicing. Besides, when it comes to automotive issues, any delay almost always means bigger repair costs.

 To wrap up, here is one key takeaway: all sensible car or truck owners do not delay a good check on the brakes. If this quick article reminded you of a lingering issue or concern, take action now. There is no room for worn out brakes on the road.

 

AC/Heating, Auto Parts, Body Repairs, Brakes, Electrical Systems, Electronics, Engine Repairs, Routine Maintenance, Suspension & Steering, Tire and Wheels, Transmission, Types of Cars

The Common Auto Body Repair Problems

Car paint problems can be quite a headache; these are not only annoying eyesores, but they could also be hiding bigger problems. Moreover, a new appointment with a car care expert is the only way to solve it. But if you get proper technique and preparation, it is possible to get these fixed.

Read on for a list of top automotive paint issues and how to solve them.

Fish eye

Fish eyes look the part, resembling crater-like round openings that may appear after you spray your primer or paint onto a surface that has traces of wax, silicone, grease or oil. Avoid fish eyes by thoroughly cleaning the vehicle before you paint it. You may use grease remover if necessary. Fixing fish eyes usually means more work, as you would need to sand and repair the affected area.

Orange peel

When a spray gun is set to too low a pressure or the paint is not reduced, the result is uneven appearance resembling that of the texture of orange fruit. And there is no way to justify the look!

Avoid orange peel by using a proper painting technique. Before you begin, it’s good to assemble the sprayer, and adjust the pressure properly. During the painting, the sprayer has to be held at a proper distance angle for a more refined finish. Just like the fish eye, an orange peel can cost quite an amount, as the error can only be fixed through wet sanding, polishing, and repainting.

Fading Car Paint

When the gloss or shine of the finish dulls as it dries, the effect is faded car paint. The best way to tend to a car’s finish is to park in a garage or carport, aside from a regular car wash. A regular wax will also help the original color of the car to last longer. There is no need to sand and repaint faded car paint, but you can try a clay bar first to get rid of dirt and oxidation, then retain the sheen by polishing the surface.

Mismatching paint color

Are you worrying over off-base color? Find the correct color code of the vehicle inside the door jam on the driver’s side. Use this tip as a guide for choosing car colors. A HIP TIP – a factory color will need to be adjusted if you plan to match faded paint. Fix a botched paint job with the help of factory matched color for the affected areas.

Bleeding

This type of Bleeding is way complex from the color bleeding of clothes. The new topcoat’s solvent unexpectedly dissolves pigments that are soluble in the original coat. Avoid bleeding by cleaning the surface before sanding. Exercise caution when painting the vehicle on a lighter shade versus its original one. Most importantly, use a quality primer/sealer before applying the new color to the vehicle. This way, any bleeding can be stopped. If it’s too late and you need to resolve bleeding, try isolating the area by using a good sealer and primer. Another option is to take off the paint and refinish with a better primer and top paint.

These common auto body paint repair problems can punch a hole through your wallet and time. Cliche as it sounds, prevention is always better than the cure. And the best prevention scheme is to have better preparation and painting technique to preempt paint issues. Putting your money on quality painting supplies can not just help you avoid car paint problems, but also get your car a flawless finish.