Tips For Keeping Up With Automotive Recalls

You hear about automotive recalls all the time in the newspaper, on the Internet, as well as on the nightly news. Amazingly, one in 12 cars traveling the roads today were recalled for one reason or another in 2003. However, even more amazing is the fact that only one third of the owners of the recalled vehicles chose to take their car in for the needed repairs. The car manufacturers are required to send out letters informing owners of these vehicles of the recall, regardless of whether it is a major or minor event. Also, the information regarding the recall is delivered to consumers in so many different mediums it is almost impossible that owners of the affected vehicles do not learn of the problems.
However, people seem to think that if they are not experiencing any problems at the moment then the recall affects all of the other vehicles instead of theirs and end up ignoring the recall. This is negligence and simply asking for the problem with the car to crop up. However, if this happens after the recall then it is the owners fault because they were given the information and allowed to fix the problem free of charge yet they simply ignored it. As long as car manufactures report the recall and inform owners of the vehicles as they are required to do by law, it is up to the consumer to take advantage of the recall and have their automobile fixed. If not, then the owner is taking the risk. If you have not heard anything about car recalls or just bought a used vehicle and want to find out if the manufacturer issued any recalls then you should check out www.nhtsa.gov or www.autorecalls.org to see if your car is listed.

Both of these websites have all the information about recalls over the past years so you can search through the year, make, and model of a vehicle to see if yours is listed. It is very likely you will see your car listed on one of these website because more than 31 million cars were recalled in 2004. That is almost unbelievable considering the amount of technology used in developing cars as well as the fact that cars are safer than they have ever been. However, it is true that mistakes are still taking places and consumers are buying vehicles with basic problems like fuses or major problems with gas lines, tires, and seats buckling in crashes. Regardless of whether or not you believe you are driving a safe car you need to check out the websites stated above every few months just to make sure your vehicle has not ended up on the list. If it has, don’t fall into the two thirds of individuals who never respond to the recall. Instead, head to the nearest dealership or authorized mechanic who can make the free repairs to your vehicle. Why so many people don’t have time for free repairs is beyond me, but knowing your vehicle has a problem that could be potentially fatal for you and your family and that a free repair is available should be enough to motivate you to have the repair taken care of.

Another thing to keep in mind is that simple problems with your vehicle that result in a visit to the mechanic may not be a problem you are required to pay for. Millions of Americans each year take their cars to the mechanic for a basic repair, or even a major one, assuming something went wrong and they simply need to fix it. Unfortunately, many of these individuals never check to see if the problem was due to a recall and end up paying for a repair that might be free or discounted by the automobile manufacturer. So, armed with this knowledge the next time your vehicle has even the slightest problem make sure you check and see if the car has been recalled for similar problems and if you can get free repairs or discounted ones at the least. It is certainly worth checking out and could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Who Issues Recalls?

In general, the reason so many people don’t respond to recalls is because they simply don’t understand the recall process. The NHTSA , National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, is responsible for investigating consumer complaints regarding specific vehicles and problems associated with them. After several consumers have reported the same or similar problem to the NHTSA for the same model vehicle an investigation is launched. The point of the NHTSA investigation is to determine whether the consumer caused the problem or malfunction in some way or if the manufacturer of the vehicle is at fault. If the manufacturer is determined to be at fault then the owners of affected models will receive information in the mail regarding the recall of the vehicle with information included on how they can have the problem corrected free of charge. However, the NHTSA is not always the one who issues a recall.

Occasionally, the manufacturer realizes a problem exists in a certain model vehicle and will voluntarily issue a recall. Of course, the NHTSA is informed as well, and the same letter is sent to owners of the vehicle letting them know the problem with the vehicle and how to correct it. Many times, however, a recall does not affect all models of a particular year. For example, if a recall is issued on 2005 Ford Explorers more than likely it will only affect a certain batch of these vehicles and not all of them. However, if you own a vehicle of that make and year then you can take it to the dealership and the service department will run the VIN, or vehicle identification number, to determine if in fact your vehicle is affected by the recall. If so, then you can have the repairs made at no cost. If not, then you can head home knowing your vehicle is safe and sound.

Just keep in mind, however, each year millions of cars are recalled for various reasons and you should always take your car in if you suspect the recall might apply to your vehicle or if you receive a recall letter. Don’t take your safety for granted, especially if the repair for the recalled vehicle is free.

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What the future holds for hot rods

Eventually, all the muscle cars from the 20th century will return to the Earth in various altered physical states.  The sport obviously can’t continue forever in current form.

            But a great assurance of its future is the imminent resurgence in modern-day successors to the cars that hot-rodders worship so dearly.  The new movement started in 2005 with the first new Ford Mustang since the late 70s.  All the basics were there – rear-wheel-drive, V8, classic looks, cheap sticker – and it fit the profile of being designed and built in America.  Even better, the Mustang’s V8 is now a modern piece that will pass all emissions standards in the foreseeable future and finds application in many cars and trucks within the lineup, satisfying that essential Hot Rod need of “cheap parts.”  Better yet, this 1990s-conceived engine is now developing a history and lineage (dare I say legend) of its own.  Lastly, the Mustang is selling well.  Ford fans, at least, can relax.

            Moparheads have the next-best news.  While they have nothing as cheap, focused, or American as the Mustang, their triplets of Chrysler 300C, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger form a close second.  Those will soon become quadruplets if the Dodge Challenger coupe (the most historically faithful) becomes a reality later this decade, probably sporting the two Hemi V8s (the 5.7-liter and the 6.1-liter) found in existing models.  Like Ford’s V8, the current-day Hemi is in great demand.

            Followers of the General will probably get something of their own.  The Chevy Camaro concept has sparked just as much serious interest as the Challenger, meaning enough to warrant production.  It too will hold the Corvette’s LS7 V8 good for 400 horsepower, prompting another few decades of Mustang-vs-Camaro wars.  And while there won’t be another Pontiac Firebird, Pontiac is supposed to get a replacement for the GTO, as much as the current one fizzled.

            The funny thing is that these cars will have so much muscle straight from the factory that it’s boggles the mind thinking of ways to get any more speed out of them, especially on the cheap.  But that’s a challenge any true hot rodder would happily take on.

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Finding Classic Auto Parts

If you finally got the classic car of your dream, finding the car parts for it is will be a hard task. Classic car parts are hard to come by because they are no longer in production, they don’t make the parts for them anymore. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be found.

One place to start looking would be online auction sites. For example, Ebay might be the easiest place to start. Ebay motors have a wide range of classic car parts, so it’s possible you might find what you are looking for.

You might also want to check out local swap meets, they are a good way to find classic car parts you’re looking. You can locate older model accessories and other outdated items.
As a last resort you can always check out car part dealer magazines. The problem with that would be the fact that you probably have to pay more money, but if you do indeed find the part you’re looking for it might be worth it.

But if it you wish to look further you can always check out clubs and organizations. More then likely many clubs and organizations are geared toward cars, or classic cars.

You could check out the internet. It seems today that theirs nothing you can’t find on the internet. You can search and find clubs you can join; it’s a good idea to search on yahoo.
If you are really desperate you can also go to the junkyard. Though it will be like looking for a needle in a hay stack, but it’s worth a shot. You can either visit or phone to see if they have the part.

But the more you take care of your car the less you’ll need to go running around looking for parts, and the more you actually enjoy your car.


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‘Tune yourself’ with the best performance software

Are you one of those passionate drivers, looking to extract maximum power from their engines without having to sacrifice the simplicity, safety and comfort that come with owning a European car? You now have but one choice – getting a big turbo software! There are many available now on the market! The unitronic turbo software comes in a number of hardware configurations for most Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Volvo applications. There are also programs for all setups: from street/track monsters to quarter mile beasts. For certain setups that are not yet available, you can choose the dyno tuned custom software, tailored to your needs. There are many factors that determine how any software will react to your specific setup.

This turbo software I’m telling you about is developed in house along with a network of enthusiasts constantly testing and data-logging to ensure the best drive ability. In certain cases, there will be free software updates released, providing the best in drive-ability and performance. The benefit of this special software over standalone engine management is that all the original manufacturers’ safety limits and functions are retained. By properly modifying the parameters which manage the engines power delivery and output, the original start up and driving characteristics will be maintained in all climates. The performance software version introduces to you the smoothest and most reliable power gains available for your vehicle. All programs are precisely tuned for all driving conditions to bring you the most reliability.

Professionals know that dynamo-meter test results are an over simplifications. They only tell part of the story since the engine is tested only at full throttle. You don't drive all day with your foot to the floor. That’s why you need a performance software, one that will maximize the power and torque you need in everyday driving conditions, where (we drivers know!) running smooth and brisk acceleration are equally as important. The unitronic performance software comes with an unconditional 30 day money back guarantee. The 30 day grace period will ensure that your expectations are met. If for any reason you are not satisfied, you may return it to your place of purchase for a full refund. Unitronics is all about your driving satisfaction. A risk-free satisfaction guarantee gives you total peace of mind. And if you didn’t know, last year, in April, UNISetting was released. This useful application, developed by unitronic for the Bosch Motronic Me7 system, allows the user to manipulate and adjust the built-in ECM adaptation channels to enhance the enthusiast's particular setup - from stock to modified, oct specific tweaks and adjusting for larger Injectors to better suit performance and drivability.

The application is, in fact, a USB based interface (the first of its kind!) to work with any Generic FTDI USB Communication interface. This device actually enables you to use your USB VAG-COM Cable Ver.A, B or C to make minor tweaks to your ECM! Be careful! If you need a VAG-Com Cable to use this amazing tool, be sure to get the Genuine Ross-Tech Vag-com Cable. So, if the answer to my introductive question is yes, stop thinking and order your software today! Get and feel the power you always wanted! You will be amazed! There is no doubt that the products of one of today's leading innovative OEM ECM tuners are specially designed to offer you the best in performance and quality!

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Discount Auto Parts: 4 Ways to Save!

If you are in the market to purchase replacement or performance automobile parts, you have several options before you in order to get what you want. Thanks to the internet, you can research your options and narrow down what you need right online. In fact, in many cases, you can order what you need right from the ease of your desktop. Still, some sources are better than others and you really need to know what you are buying before purchasing parts from anyone.

The following are four options for finding parts: Salvage Yards. Also known as junk yards, salvage yards provide cheap parts for just about any type of vehicle. You just need to know if the particular make/model you own is sitting somewhere on site. The larger junkyards inventory their cars and with that information you can find exactly where the vehicle is located. Prices are usually very reasonably, but you must remember that the part you are purchasing is used and quality levels can vary from junker to junker. Salvage yards are a particularly good place to shop if you need a door panel, fender, or other body component.

Retail Stores. The large chain stores typically have something for everyone. Sale prices can be good, but selection may be limited to a few key brands. Replacement parts for less common vehicles can be harder to find. Some parts are subject to big mark ups, particularly with retailers who rely upon intermediary suppliers for their entire inventory.

Car Dealers. New car dealers are an excellent place to find replacement parts. They should be if they feature your particular make/model vehicle. The larger dealers generally have well stocked parts departments right on site. The drawback is often their prices typically reflect big mark ups. You’ll pay through the nose if you have a dealer install anything for you too.

Wholesalers. Most reputable wholesalers are now marketing their inventory right online. The advantage to you is a wider product selection, lower prices, ease of ordering, and quick service. Shop only with those wholesalers who have a toll free number listed where you can contact a live person, if needed. Go with those wholesalers offering free shipping, typically available on orders exceeding $50. You can save big with a well known wholesaler, such as the Auto Parts Warehouse, as they cut out the middle man to offer you the lowest prices across the board. As with any transaction, check your parts carefully as some retailers unknowingly stock counterfeit parts. Make certain that you can return whatever you purchase if a problem comes up. Use a credit card to back up with your purchase with the credit card issuer’s guarantee.
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Tips on Sports Car Engine Maintenance

Buying a car today can be pretty expensive. The average car price is almost $23,000. That is definitely a lot of money, even for some of the typical and ordinary cars available in the market. This shows that the other types of cars like the sports cars are high priced.

With high quality of sports cars, it is important that owners learn how to maintain their car’s engine in order to protect their asset.

Sports cars are especially made for “sporting performance”. This means that its actual engine performance is on a higher level for speed, acceleration, maneuverability, and braking are compared to the other types of cars.

With these remarkable features, some sports car drivers tend to use its power even if they are not on a race. Therefore, maintaining the sports car engine is extremely important. Yet a sports car engine does not have to be powerful and large.

Here is a list of useful tips for maintaining sports car engines:

1.  For average use, it is still necessary to check the sports car engine every 3000 miles. One of the primary engine maintenance tips is to change the engine oil along with the filter. This will ensure proper lubrication and performance of the sports car engine.

2. Check the other fluids in the engine such as the brake fluid, “automatic transmission fluid level (if applicable),” coolant, etc. These fluids are important in keeping the sports car engine’s performance healthy.

3. Always check the engine compartment for any signs of leaks. Leaks usually indicate a broken gasket.

4. Always look for some wear, breaks or cracks of the engine belts. Taking it for granted can create serious engine problems.

5. Be wary of spark plugs that are beyond the recommended 30,000-mile range. Old spark plugs that ore not working properly can deprive you of fuel efficiency.

It is important that all engine maintenance checks performed on a sports car should be recorded in a logbook. This will be very useful especially if the person who has done the maintenance check has forgotten the last date of oil change or other maintenance that was performed.

There is no other way to keep a sports car in top condition than to have a regular maintenance check-up on its engine. You must remember that the engine is the most important part of a car, especially the sports car; therefore, it should be properly maintained.


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3 American Performance Cars

Bear with me as I step back in time to formulate what I believe are three terrific American built performance cars: the Ford Mustang, the Dodge Challenger, and the Chevrolet Camaro. Currently, only the Mustang is in production with the Challenger coming back by 2009. GM hasn’t committed to building the Camaro just yet, but the company is likely to make a decision in favor of the car and its sibling, the Pontiac Firebird, by this summer. So, what is it about American performance cars that set them apart from the rest? In one word: muscle. Read on as I compare and contrast these three vehicles and share with you my feeble attempts to explain the culture behind the cars. So, you think I forgot the Chevy Corvette and Dodge Viper when talking about performance cars? No, I did not. Both models are performance cars as well as race cars. On the other hand the Mustang, Challenger, and Camaro are mass produced performance cars with muscle. There is a difference in the way a typical race car handles, rides, and performs vs. a muscle car. Typically, a muscle car was a coupe version of some of the larger cars that were pervasive on U.S. highways in the 1960s and 1970s. The Mustang and Camaro, however, were designed separately [although they both heavily borrowed parts from other models] and these “pony” cars were a category all to themselves. For comparison’s sake, they join the Dodge Challenger, a performance version of Mopar cars of its time. All three were compared by critics of that time and all three will once again be compared in a few years when production has been ramped up.
Ford Mustang -– Step back in time with me to April 1964 to an era when America was heavily involved in the space race, Lyndon Johnson was president, and General Motors ruled autodom. Ford, for its part, had been nipping at GM’s heels for years, but the failed Edsels of the late 1950s had cost the company dearly. Still, it was the time of the New York World’s Fair and Ford used the fair and television technology to promote its newest offering, the Mustang. A 2+2 coupe borrowing parts from the Fairlane and Falcon, the 1964 ½ model was the first one sold and is widely credited with being the best introduction of a new vehicle ever. With a V6 engine standard and V8 optional, the all new Mustang quickly broke sales records and has been a hot seller ever since. Indeed, with the introduction of the “retro” look Mustang in 2005, the car once again has spawned interest in the muscle car segment as both DaimlerChrysler and General Motors craft competing models of their own.
Dodge Challenger -– After the success of earlier muscle cars including the Dodge Charger and Plymouth ‘Cuda, the Dodge Challenger was launched as a 1970 model. The car borrowed heavily from the ‘Cuda although the sheet metal was somewhat different and the wheelbase was stretched by a couple of inches. Because the muscle car era was in decline at the time of its introduction, the Challenger lasted only five model years before it was cancelled. The concept Challenger currently on display at many auto shows is based on the 1970 design and is the talk of message boards and blogs across the nation. Look for Hemi powered engines as being favored by many owners; the car is likely to share some technology with the current Magnum wagon and Charger sedan.

Chevrolet Camaro -- GM was asleep at the wheel when the Mustang came out. It took nearly three years before the company could respond and when it did the Camaro and Pontiac Firebird were the result. Although both cars sold well over the years, neither one could match the Mustang’s sales levels and by the time the last cars were sold in 2002, production dropped to a trickle. Still, the end of the Camaro after 35 years has stirred renewed interest in the name and thanks to the retro Mustang, the entire muscle car category is growing once again. Look for a 2010 Camaro to be the first Camaro since 2002; a ragtop version is also being considered. So, just who can be expected to purchase a muscle car these days? People just like me: middle aged men who grew up with the original models. In addition, a whole new generation of younger drivers tired of the “me too” look of so many of the compact cars out there. Muscle cars of today are so much different from earlier era cars as they incorporate the look of the originals while harnessing today’s technology. Thus, fuel savings will be decent without sacrificing performance: a true win-win situation. No, I cannot wait to see a Mustang, Challenger, and Camaro lined up at a traffic light waiting for the light to turn green. A new muscle car era is upon us and for that I am very excited.

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