Repairs and Maintenance When Your Dealer Goes Out of Business

You purchased your new car two weeks ago, got a great deal and a great tax break under the stimulus deal. You start flipping through the paper while eating breakfast and notice something - your dealer just closed its doors. Oh, no!

The times they are a changing. Unfortunately, this means in a bad way as the economy goes into the tank. The rough economic times have been particularly bad news for the auto industry. Americans are rightly angry that the automakers are getting so much money to stay afloat, but it is important to realize this is a global issue. Practically every country has had to help the automakers including Japan with Honda, France with Renault and on and on and on.

While automakers are getting help from the government, dealers are not. They simply don't employee enough people nor do they have the lobbying clout that manufacturers do. If automakers have it tough, dealers are absolutely being crushed. Estimates indicate one out of ever two may close before this is over. That is a staggering percentage.

Any new car comes with a warranty and maintenance plan. Essentially, both of these are free for a specified time or number of miles. It is a great deal, but you have to get the work done at your dealer. This raises the rather odd question of what happens if the dealer closes the door and no longer exists?!

The answer to this quandary is actually fairly simple. You do not have to take your car to the dealer you purchased it from. You can take it to another dealer for the brand. Since there are usually multiple dealers for each brand in the area, it shouldn't be a big problem to switch over. You will not be the only customer in need.

What if the only dealer in your area closes? You can usually take it any dealer in the area for the automaker regardless of brand. For instance, GM owns the Chevrolet and Pontiac brands. If your Pontiac dealer closes, you can take it to a Chevrolet dealer and so on.

Okay, what if there are no dealers from the automaker in the area at all? At this point, you have to call the automaker to get directions on their policy in such situation. Each automaker has a unique policy. Make sure they send you directions in writing so there aren't any disputes later.

Dirk Gibson writes for http://www.DCJAutoParts.com - find car parts online for your car that won't cost an arm and a leg

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By Dirk Gibson

Car Engine Maintenance - Take Heed of That Light!

Your car's engine requires tuning to work at its potential for optimum fuel consumption. Plan tune ups regularly to make sure your car's engine perform better.

Duct tape over the 'check engine light' can keep you from glancing at it every now and then and wonder why it is flickering. But that means the car is being smart and warning you in advance of a problem that is likely to get worse and you are ignoring it until your car can no longer take being ignored.

That's usually when it throws a tantrum and stops working at all. This also is usually when the wad of dollar bills comes out of your pocket in order to make the necessary repairs.

To get a better perspective of the problem, read the owner manual carefully in order to check what the different frequencies of the flickering engine light mean. You can also ask your mechanic as well.

All the lights may light up when you turn your ignition key as you start your engine. If they do not light up go to your mechanic in order to make them light up. If they do not light up as you turn your ignition key, it means that they are not working properly and so if there is a problem they will not signal it.

If the light means stop and fix the problem, do not think you can get away with. Going a few more miles may seriously damage your engine and cause more trouble. So take action right away.

Scrap the duct tape and you will surely save much more on repairs and fuel...

Napoleon Miles is a keen advocate of proper driving and alternative sources of energy to increase efficiency and save on fuel costs. For more information about alternative energy sources that increase efficiency please go to Water Fuel Guides Reviewed

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By Napoleon Miles

Types of Auto Insurance Companies

Different auto insurance companies offer different types of coverage to suit any need, budget, and car type. To know which one best meets your present requirements; you need to have a thorough understanding of each type.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance

This is the most common type of auto insurance. It is usually used for brand new to almost new cars and vehicles that still have a relatively high market value. This kind of insurance protects the owner against every possible thing that could go wrong – theft, injury, damage, etc. Filing for a claim is a snap – there is no need to show fault. Because of this, rates of comprehensive auto insurance tend to be high. It’s a good idea to avail of this type if you can afford it, because it can give you peace of mind.

Special Car Insurance

This kind of auto insurance is designed for vintage, classic and collectible cars. It has all the benefits that comprehensive insurance offers, so you are protected against all possible scenarios. Keep in mind that special car insurance does impose a certain limit– you can only drive your vintage car for a limited number of road miles a year. Be sure to talk to your insurance agent thoroughly about this matter.

Third Party, Fire & Theft Auto Insurance

As the name implies, you can only file for a claim under this type of insurance if you are at fault in a given accident, in the event of fire and if your car gets stolen. If you hit a wall or if another car hits you, you cannot claim for anything (you should instead let the insurance company of the person who hit you pay for the damages). This insurance is inexpensive, and is ideal for people who drive older cars that have already depreciated in value.

Auto Insurance Companies provides detailed information on Auto Insurance Companies, Types of Auto Insurance Companies, Top Auto Insurance Companies, Auto Insurance Company Ratings and more. Auto Insurance Companies is affiliated with Car Insurance Policies

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By Peter Emerson

Auto Insurance Company Ratings

One of the best ways to find a good auto insurance company is by checking out their ratings. These ratings are a result of massive consumer surveys – people who have actually done business with several auto insurance companies are asked to rate the insurers based on certain criteria that includes customer support and ease of filing claims.

Keep in mind that these ratings are not comprehensive and are essentially just the opinions of a number of consumers who may not necessity comprise a valid representation of the whole consumer base. As in any other rating system, auto insurance company ratings have limitations, and the better you understand these limitations, the better you can use rating information to guide your decisions.

Do not be misled by high ratings, because they don’t necessarily mean that the auto insurance company’s rates are low. Keep in mind that most ratings are limited to certain sates or vicinities, and that the top scorers may not be in business in your area. The auto insurance ratings reflect average consumer perceptions of the auto insurance company and its service, not assurances of any kind. Be open to the possibility that while other people may have had good experience dealing with a particular auto insurance company, you may experience something different.

Ratings can be unreliable, especially if they are based on haphazard surveys that do not verify respondent ownership of the product or services being surveyed. For example, some rating companies may ask random consumers for their opinions regarding a certain auto insurance provider without making sure that the respondent actually uses that insurer. Non-scientific ratings are misleading, so be careful how you use the information they give you. Do not base your decisions on ratings alone – it is important to also do some research yourself.

Auto Insurance Companies provides detailed information on Auto Insurance Companies, Types of Auto Insurance Companies, Top Auto Insurance Companies, Auto Insurance Company Ratings and more. Auto Insurance Companies is affiliated with Car Insurance Policies

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By Peter Emerson

Top Auto Insurance Companies

The best way to stay protected against car theft, fire and other automobile mishaps is to have your vehicle insured by one of the top auto insurance companies in your area. These companies have served thousands of clients and have established reputations as reliable car insurance providers. They have earned the respect of competitors and industry partners. Choosing a top insurance company undoubtedly has its advantages. Their rates may not be the lowest in the market –but they more than make up for the few hundred extra dollars you’ll pay for excellent service.

Top insurance companies stay on top because they put their customers first. These insurers usually have fully functional client support hotlines, online help and very competent customer care staff. You can be assured of round-the-clock help when you need it, and may even be entitled to some extras such as roadside assistance, free towing and discounts on auto shops and auto supply dealers.

Less established car insurance providers usually mix up your account with other customer accounts, and overcharges or late notices may frustrate you. This dilemma is minimized when you do business with top auto insurance companies. Your bills are more likely to come on time and will be detailed. Most top auto insurance companies send their client’s regular updates and promotions either via simple letters or brochures. Such a service is especially useful if there are changes in rates, billing schedules and policies – you never have to be surprised because you’re always in the know.

Because these top companies have more manpower, your claims can be processed faster with fewer errors. You probably won’t need to make constant follow-ups. Your claim will progress by quickly and you can get your check or have your car repaired within days.

Auto Insurance Companies provides detailed information on Auto Insurance Companies, Types of Auto Insurance Companies, Top Auto Insurance Companies, Auto Insurance Company Ratings and more. Auto Insurance Companies is affiliated with Car Insurance Policies

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By Peter Emerson

Muscle Car Spoilers

A muscle car spoiler is a car spoiler attached on a muscle car, which is a term for high-performance cars, primarily American models produced between 1964 and 1974. Muscle car spoilers make the vehicle unique and stand out in the crowd. Often with flashy, sporty styling, these mid-sized cars have special trims and large powerful engines (V8 engines). The special trims are intended for utmost acceleration on the street or in drag racing competition.

The muscle car models initially sported only rear spoilers. The construction of front spoilers not only enhanced the appearance, but also added functionality in terms of aerodynamic design. The muscle car spoilers, both frontal and rear spoilers, are usually molded into the bumper caps. This arrangement helps to reduce the car’s lift and drag and increase its downforce. Subsequently, these would ensure increase in traction, permitting the car to brake, turn, and accelerate properly and more forcefully.

Muscle car spoilers come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. In early cars, spoilers were made of plastic. Those were not fit to survive the constant exposure of UV rays of the sun. The spoilers are now made from polyurethane, which are durable and sturdy materials. A few are also made from lightweight steel or fiberglass. A car with a good spoiler means that there is less resistance, which would result in a higher top speed.

Some of the muscle car models that come with spoilers include the Pontiac Tempest Le Mans GTO, the Buick Riviera Gran Sport, the Dodge Charger, the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS, and Oldsmobile Cutlass 442. The Pontiac Tempest installed its first rear spoiler in 1969, along with other accessories such as decals, and a 366 horsepower, Ram Air III V8. The Dodge Charger Daytona built in 1969 features front spoiler and a huge rear deck spoiler.

Spoilers provides detailed information on Car Spoilers, Car Spoilers, Muscle Car Spoilers, Affordable Car Spoilers and more. Spoilers is affiliated with Chrome Rims

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By Peter Emerson

Wholesale Car Audio

Car audio systems are one of the most wanted luxury items today. And many of us try to look for the cheapest options available. Any product is marketed through a chain of manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and customers. You can get wholesale rates if the retailer is skipped. But in most cases, car audio systems are supplied only through retailers. Getting car audio systems at discounted prices is convenient with online shopping, auctions, dealer discounts and used products. But authentic car audio systems on wholesale basis can be tricky to find.

There are online wholesale clubs which provide people with information on wholesale deals but the authenticity of products can be questionable. A lot of effort and research is required to locate wholesale sources for car audio systems. Some wholesalers sell new audio systems, some market secondhand systems and a few also auction for bulk deals.

Some manufacturers with wholesale units also set up their own retail outlets. This way the customer gets a lower price and the manufacturer enjoys higher profits, as everything is done in-house.

Price is certainly a factor to consider, but source is as important. It is better to verify the source from the manufacturer. Unauthorized dealers may not give a full warranty. Many reputable car audio manufacturers do not allow Internet sales. Nonetheless, we find all brands and models, which may just be gray market items. The seller might not even know that serial numbers have been tampered with, which makes the manufacturer’s warranty void. Such problems are hard to deal with and trace back if needed.

Do an Internet search on wholesale car audio systems, and hundreds of sites appear claiming to be wholesalers. But most reviews say that the prices are at par with retail. So if you think that you have found a good wholesale deal, beware and check it out before making your final payment.

Car Audio provides detailed information on Car Audio, Discount Car Audio, Wholesale Car Audio, Car Audio Systems and more. Car Audio is affiliated with Car Stereo Installations

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By Peter Emerson