Need to Buy a New Car?

Underinflation of tires, according to studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is the leading cause of tire failure and, therefore, tire-related automotive accidents. In short, keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure is integral for the safety or yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road.

There are several reasons tires lose pressure. Tears in the tire wall or punctures are obvious causes of “slow leaks,” but ambient temperature can also cause changes in tire pressure as well. For example, if you live in Los Angeles where it is 68 degrees and drive up into the mountains where it is 33 degrees — a journey of about 1.5 hours – you can expect a 4.4 psi pressure drop by the time you reach your destination. Why? It’s typical for tires to lose pressure at approximately 1 psi for every 8-degree drop in temperature. On top of that, tires regularly lose 1 psi per month as well.

Most of us simply “eyeball” our tires and don’t add air until we see a visual difference. This method is not reliable and if fewer people used it as a guide for proper inflation, there’d certainly be fewer accidents as well. In most cars, trucks, and SUVs, the recommended tire pressures are printed on a label in the glove box, on the driver’s manual, or on a sticker adhered to the doorframe. Keep a gauge handy and use it regularly. Doing so will not only keep you and your occupants safer, but will also improve your fuel economy.

It’s also important to have your tires rotated and inflated to the proper pressure about once every 6,000 miles unless the manufacturer of your vehicle suggests otherwise. Uneven wear on tires can also lead to underinflation.

Some new vehicles now have warning systems to alert drivers of tire pressure loss as a part of their active safety packages. For example, Isuzu’s Ascender SUV – known for its upgraded safety features – has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System that instantly warns the driver of a significant pressure loss. Isuzu’s pickup truck line employs the same technology.

The second leading cause of tire failure is overloading a tire. This happens often with owners of pickup trucks and SUVs. Just because your vehicle can contain a heavy load doesn’t mean your tires can support the same amount of weight. Be sure to check maximum load weights and speeds before attempting to haul or tow a heavy load.

Be sure to also use the proper tire for the conditions you’re driving in. While it may seem more appropriate to use snow tires on dry roads than regular tires in heavy snow and ice conditions, it’s not. Dry roads cause escalated wear of snow tires and reducing traction. It’s best to use the proper tires in the proper environments and when the season changes, change your tires as well. “All-season” tires may seem like the most convenient answer, but keep in mind that while they may be adequate in all weather conditions, the nature of their design to do so, keeps them from performing excellently in one specific condition. And because they are not perfectly adapted to any specific weather condition, they may wear more quickly than specialized seasonal tires would when used in the conditions they were designed to function the best.reverse cell phone lookup|reverse cell phone lookup| reverse cell phone lookup

Anyone who is quite familiar with cars has bumped into the brand Mitsubishi before. Its logo resembling three red diamonds is the company’s signature. This however is not only a name of an automobile company in Japan because the fact is; Mitsubishi is an industrial group.

Its subsidiaries vary from shipping, banking, research, oil and other things you can imagine which an advanced country like Japan may need. In our case we will focus on the famous category of Mitsubishi which is their cars.

The Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is by far known to be the sixth largest automaker in Japan, and the seventeenth in the world. Since its founding in 1970, Mitsubishi has considered alliances with foreign companies which, on the long run helped out with the marketing of the company’s products in the early years of 1970s and 1980s.

The origins of the Mitsubishi motors line up date back to the year 1917. Until its concrete founding in the 1970s, Mitsubishi began its journey of production and world class reputation. It was in 1982 that the Mitsubishi brand was introduced in America. The Japanese car produced models like the Tredia Sedan, Cordia and the Stanon Coupes, distributing it to 70 dealers in a sum of 22 states. It was in those times also that the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation invaded the airwaves of the United States by campaigning through television.

Aside from forming major alliances with Chrysler, it was also known that Mitsubishi also worked with Hyundai, Proton, Volvo, Colt and Lonsdale/ These ventures opened more doors to better productivity and market shares.

Mitsubishi cars have gained reputation in the motor sport as well. Its debut was in circuit racing and has made accounts ever since. Its Lancer sports vehicle paved its way through rally events to a point that Mitsubishi is named and labeled to be the number one manufacturer in the history of the Dakar Rally which is the most challenging rally event there is. Confirmations of Mitsubishi’s performance and durability are evident on the company’s track records that their car has achieved.

If you fancy leisure and luxury or off road challenges and races with your Mitsubishi car, then make your Mitsubishi experience with the well designed Mitsubishi key chains. These are well crafted for every Mitsubishi car owner. May it be in teardrop, steering wheel, valet chain or a revolving key holder, the special designs will surely satisfy the owners. These accessories are available in specialty shops in your area selling collectibles and novelty items or via online dealers.

Performance and comfort are the basic ingredients for finding the right car to own for a long time, and Mitsubishi motors have proven it to be an essential of the cars that they produce. To ride with the wind in your Mitsubishi is one thing special, accessorizing with the right Mitsubishi merchandise is another. So the next time you ride make sure that you will look and feel good about the entire experience of the Mitsubishi that you own.earth4energy review|earth4energy review|earth4energy review

As with any other ‘toy’, you can buy a wide variety of different ATV accessories. Some are made to make your adventures more fun, some are for convenience, and some are for functionality. You can find these accessories at a variety of places, and their price ranges vary.

Common ATV accessories include storage devices, clothing, and bags of all kinds. There are several storage boxes out there to choose from. You can get storage boxes that attach to the front or the back of your ATV. There are also coolers that can be attached to keep drinks or lunch cool on those longer trips. Trunks are available and can be attached to the back of your ATV. If you are planning a long trip, you can also use a fuel storage device. A regular size storage container will hold two one-gallon fuel tanks and have a space for regular storage in between. Storage is also available in the form of new seats.

If you are looking for more convenience, you can install bottle holders or fender bags. Either of these ATV accessories makes it much easier to grab a drink while you are taking a break. It keeps what you need within reach so you don’t have to dismount the ATV.

ATV clothing is designed for safety and functionality. Whether it is a helmet, gloves that protect your hands from stress and cold, or camouflage clothes to help you blend in with your surroundings, the clothes that you choose can make all the difference. You will want to find ATV accessories that protect your head, hands, and feet primarily. If you are purchasing ATV clothing for your child, you may have to purchase additional items to help keep them safer.

So, where can you find these accessories? You can find them at your local dealer, specialty shops, or you can find them online. No matter which you use to find your ATV accessories, be sure to purchase from a reputable source. If you are going to purchase accessories online, make sure that you use good Internet purchasing decisions. Know who you are buying from. Know their return policies. Know their reputation. You can find good deals on the Internet, but you may be able to find good deals locally also. Ask your friends. Find out who they purchase their accessories from.

Does brand matter – do you have to buy the most expensive stuff? What is most important is that the company uses quality materials and has good production. You want strong accessories that are going to serve you well. You don’t want to buy something cheap, that’s well, cheap! The best buy is not always the most expensive or the least expensive. Do your homework and find out which option suits you best.

This is just a small sample of what is out there and what you can find. There are accessories out there ranging from windshields to camouflage tires. The ATV accessories you are looking for, and some you probably never knew existed, are out there just waiting for you.
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Insurance—it’s everywhere. One can insure just about anything. Are tires an investment one needs to insure? Tire insurance, also called a road hazard policy, road hazard warranty, or tire reimbursement plan, is a rapidly growing industry in the automotive world.

Tire warranty plans pay in full or in part for the replacement or repair of damaged tires and/or rims from “road hazards.” Road hazards are defined as pot holes, debris, nails, wood, and other hazards found in the road. Curbs, sidewalks, and stone walls are not road hazards. This is an important distinction to consider when deciding if tire insurance is right for you (discussed further ahead).

Tire plans last for a specific period of time and tire wear tread-depth. Some plans last 2-3 years. Others can last 5 years or 60,000 miles. Several plans come with fixed amounts of coverage: $500 per year up to 4 years. Many contracts require three years of law school to comprehend. In terms of tread depth, a tire is usually considered worn out (and thus the plan null and void) at 2/32 to 3/32 of an inch.

Another important distinction is in the type of plan.

Tire reimbursement plans are just what they say. You, the plan holder, will be reimbursed after the claims process is finalized—usually 2-8 weeks. There is an out-of-pocket expense. These plans are often sold by new car dealerships. The prices can range from $300 to $600 dollars.

Road hazard policies operate similarly to reimbursement plans. However, some tire insurance providers, in partnership with the repair facility, may have a direct-pay relationship. Thus, there would be no out-of-pocket expense, except for applicable deductibles, and items not covered in part or in full. These plans are primarily sold by tire dealers and repairshops. The prices range from $10 to $30 per tire. They also can be based on a percentage of the cost of the tire: usually 12% to 15%.

Both types of plans have a number of variables, requiring a magnifying glass to read the fine print. Also, many are pro-rated warranties, covering only a percentage of the cost of the tire based on its wear.

Claims and Coverage:
Depending on the plan, claims are initiated by the repair shop. The process is fairly smooth, although there can be a significant delay from the provider for authorization. This delay may be an hour or an entire weekend. This means that you’ll have to “ok” the tire replacement, and then hope it’s authorized for the full amount, or drive on your spare.

Some plans offer national coverage either among their service facilities or from other repair centers. Claims procedures will vary. Others only provide local coverage, or coverage at the selling facility.

Limitations:
Tire insurance does not mean that everything is covered. Pro-rated warranties are based on the wear and tear of the tire. You may get 75%, 50%, or only 10% coverage depending on the tread-depth. You’ll pay the remainder. While there are plans that offer full coverage, even these have limitations, or they may conflict with a repair shop’s policies.

For example, many plans allow for a maximum of $30 to mount and balance one tire, and a maximum of $15 to repair a tire. However, sport tires often have significantly higher mounting and balancing fees—upwards of $50 per tire—and tire repair prices can exceed $90. There are also discrepancies on the tire and rim prices themselves, which in the end, may have to be supplemented by the service customer.

Although there usually is not an issue with the latter given the competitive market, the service center’s price mark up may be unacceptable to the plan provider. In this case, the service center needs to lower the price or you, the service customer, need to pay the difference—or go somewhere else. This does happen!

Rim Prices and Repairs:
Rim replacement is becoming less frequent. With the high cost of aluminum wheels and sport wheel packages, tire insurers have opted to have them repaired. Repair will only be done if the rim does not hold air. What this means is that even if the rim is warped—enough to cause a vibration and even premature tire wear—they won’t replace it. Rather, they will send it out to be straightened and repaired.

Rims are replaced only if the damage is so extensive that the new tire, when mounted on the rim, won’t hold air. However, even in this case, especially if it’s an expensive sport wheel, they may still attempt to repair it.

Repairing rims is a bad option. While some rim repair is acceptable, badly warped or damaged rims will in no way ever be the same.

Alignments:
If a car hits a road hazard hard enough, such as a pot hole, it’s wise to have the alignment checked. Road hazard policies and tire reimbursement plans do not cover alignments. The service customer will have to pay for this procedure.

Road Hazard Protection Positives:
Some plans include tire rotations, wheel balancing, and nationwide coverage.

Myths:

1) “Can I pop all 4 tires and get a new set of tires?”

You can try. But this type of claim will trigger a number of red flags with the insurer. The policy holder will likely send out adjusters and/or require photographs. You will also have a difficult time explaining how a “road hazard” caused all 4 tire pop.

2) “New tires come with a road hazard warranty.”

New tires do come with a warranty by the tire manufacturer. However, it only covers defects in workmanship. New tire warranties do not cover punctures or damages from external sources. This is why “road hazard” protection is being pushed.

New tires are rarely defective. If there is a problem, it’s usually noticed when balancing the tire. Or, there is a drivability concern such as vibration or noise. If there’s a defect it’s generally caught right away, and the tire swapped out.

3) “It’s so cheap; it’s a no-brainer, right?”

Actually, the experts don’t agree with this statement.

The Economics of Tire Warranties:
An article from the Washington Post by Terence O’Hara explains the economics of extended warranties and purchase protection plans in general. It is quite fitting for road hazard warranties. He writes:

“The decision to buy an extended warranty…defies the recommendations of economists, consumer advocates and product quality experts, who all warn that the plans rarely benefit consumers and are nearly always a waste of money.

‘[Extended warranties or purchase protection plans] make no rational sense,’ Harvard economist David Cutler said. ‘The implied probability [of having an issue with the product] has to be substantially greater than the risk that you can’t afford to fix it or replace it. If you’re buying a $400 item, for the overwhelming number of consumers that level of spending is not a risk you need to insure under any circumstances.’”

In short, road hazard warranties are a waste of money. Don’t insure that which you can afford to replace.

Numbers Game and Slim Chances:
Like all insurance, tire insurance plans are a numbers game. However, this is a game you have a 98% chance of losing. Insider statistics show that the percentage of claims paid out by providers is as low a 2%.

Curbs:
Another interesting note is that a lot of tire damage is caused by curbs. Curb damage is not covered under most road hazard policies. High granite curbs with sharp edges slice through tens of thousands of tires per year.

You Won’t Notice:
Many people don’t even notice tire damage. Other than to see if the tires are holding air, who “really” looks at tires? Tires are subject to a whole host of external influences which cause bubbles, slices and gouges.

Despite the potential dangers of damaged tires, the damage very often does not translate into any noticeable drivability issue. The point is that if you don’t notice any tire damage you can’t benefit from the coverage.

Research Shows:
Those raving about the benefits of a road hazard policy are the actual folks in the industry who stand to benefit from the sale. They’ll argue that it’s so cheap—only $10 to $20 per tire. Even so, for four tires, that’s $80 based on the “possibility,” the “chance,” of damaging a tire that meets the repair/replacement requirement protocols.

Auto Insurance:
If a rim and tire has incurred significant damage, it’s quite likely that other problems have resulted as well. The first is that the vehicle may have been jarred out of alignment. Secondly, hub bearings, front end components: tie rods, spindles, ball joints, and a variety of other components may have sustained damage. In this case, auto insurance, which you are already paying for, will pay for everything—brand new.

Free Road Hazard Warranties:
Many tires come with road hazard warranties FREE. In other words, in an effort to secure retailers, many tire distributors provide service centers FREE road hazard insurance. Some shops pass this on to their tire customers, others sell them. Ask if the tire “comes” with a road hazard protection policy. If not, request that one be provided at no additional charge. It’s worth a shot.

Also, some car manufacturers provide road hazard warranties FREE of charge for 12 months or 12,000 miles. If you’re buying a new car or even used, ask that the dealer provide a complimentary road hazard policy (after all the wheeling and dealing is done, of course), and just before you commit.

“What’s the best road hazard policy?”
Money in “your” bank account.

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Whether to buy a new car or buy a used car is often times the first decision that needs to be arrived at before you can actively begin perusing purchasing your next vehicle.

Let’s take a look at some tips, pros, and cons when it comes to making this decision.

First of all, having been in the automotive business for many years, I almost always lean toward finding a good used car that fits what I am looking for. For me, I believe that used cars offer the best value for your dollar. In most cases, you’ll find used car departments are much more used to and willing to negotiate the price that they have posted on the car. From a negotiating standpoint, most used cars won’t have all of those superfluous dealer ‘add-ons’ stuck on the window either that will just never do.

In the automotive market, used cars will most certainly come with a lower initial price tag than a comparably equipped new car. And not only will the price be lower, you may also find that so is your cost to insure the used car as well as the tags, and taxes. Depreciation being what it is; means that with a car a couple of years old, the biggest depreciation hit has already occurred. And from a tangible perspective, you may have a better chance of getting those upgrades you’d like to have on the used car that you couldn’t otherwise afford going with the new.

Yet, with all of this, buying a used car isn’t for everyone. Finding a used vehicle that fits one’s entire car buying criteria can be a tough exercise in balancing what you want with the value versus risk inherent when it comes to used cars.

Not so many years ago, reliability was a major concern when purchasing a used car… and rightfully so. Today however, reliability problems are a fraction of what they used to be. Today’s vehicles, when properly maintained will easily go for 100,000 miles and it’s not uncommon for vehicles to be motoring along as they approach 200,000 miles or more. And with all of the information now available online, the risk factor is again reduced even a bit more.

Even though more reliable today, buying a used car for people means buying a car that is probably out of its original bumper to bumper warranty. This alone, is enough to repel many potential car buyers back to the new car side of the dealership.

As you know, if you are looking at buying a used car, you are probably looking at a car that is outside the factory warranty or at least would have very little remaining. With no warranty you’ll be on the hook to pay for any needed repairs out of your own pocket. However, the biggest expense for most all cars today are the things that aren’t covered by any manufacturer’s warranty anyway; items such as brakes, tires, alignment, batteries, etc.

Of course nobody can guarantee that you won’t encounter a lemon. No matter what the make and model, no manufacturer can produce a vehicle that can withstand years of neglect and/or abuse. Always, always, always give the used car a thorough inspection both by yourself and a qualified mechanic; doing this will catch most problems that may be looming on the horizon.

When it comes to financing the purchase of a used car, you find that the going interest rates will typically be higher than new car rates. This is definitely a piece of the puzzle you’ll want to check out. There is no rule of thumb as to what the difference in the interest rate will be between the two because there are just too many determining variables involved such as; the economy, rebates and incentives involved on the new car side, your credit, length of financing, and even the type of used car you’re looking at. Be sure to crunch the numbers for both sides.

With used cars, insurance can save you some money as well because you’ll typically pay less for your insurance on a like model from a few years past. The reason is simple; less cost of replacement for the insurance company and used cars are generally not high on the stolen lists.

And finally, (the latest) safety features could be a concern if you’re looking at used car (particularly if you’re going back a few model years).

All in all, if the touch, feel, and smell of a new car, isn’t a top priority for you, I think you’ll find that a well thought out used car purchase you can get more car and features and still be within your budget.
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