How a Healthy Exhaust System Affects Your Car's Performance
By Terry Brown

A vehicle is composed of several interrelated systems whose functions are necessary to its efficient performance. One of the systems that are often overlooked but are essentially important to the vehicle's maximum efficiency is the exhaust system.

You are probably one of the many that think this system only takes care of channeling out the gaseous waste from the engine. While this is true, however, bear in mind that the way it does this is crucial to your driving satisfaction.

As part of its efforts to bring to you a balance resource of top of the line replacement and aftermarket auto parts and Auto Parts Information, Auto Parts Inner, your leading source of top rated auto parts including OEM quality Ford parts, BMW parts, Chevy parts,Dodge parts, Volvo parts and Jeep parts joins you as you explore the ins and outs of the Exhaust System.

How does a healthy Exhaust System affect your car, truck, van or SUV's performance?

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First off, let's take a brief review of the Exhaust system and then let's identify its major components: exhaust manifold, oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, muffler and exhaust pipe and their respective functions.

Generally, the exhaust system carries away the harmful excess gasses such as the hydrocarbons (unburned) carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, phosphorus lead and other metals that were produced during the combustion of the fuel and air mixture.

Those gases are harmful to the environment and to us humans so they must be cleaned before they are sent out of the vehicle. With this essential task of the exhaust system, it becomes necessary for us to check it regularly for damages or corrosion that could adversely affect its proper functioning.

There are basically two types of exhaust systems: the Dual or Twin Exhaust System and the Emission Control System.

Dual Exhaust System

Dual exhaust system has two tailpipes, which allows the engine to exhaust more freely, thereby lowering the back pressure which is inherent in an exhaust system. With a dual exhaust system, a sizable increase in engine horsepower can be obtained because the "breathing" capacity of the engine is improved, leaving less exhaust gases in the engine at the end of each exhaust stroke. This, in turn, leaves more room for an extra intake of the air-fuel mixture.

The Emission Control System

The purpose of the emission control system is just that; it controls the emissions and exhaust from your vehicle. Some emission control exhaust systems are designed to prevent the formation of pollutants in the engine itself while the other type of emission control exhaust systems turn the harmful gases into harmless ones through the use of a catalytic converter.

Exhaust System Components:

1. Exhaust Manifold - this part is attached to the cylinder, usually constructed of cast iron, which is used to conduct the exhaust gases from the combustion chambers to the exhaust pipe.

2. Oxygen Sensor - this is a hollow tube inserted into the exhaust manifold to measure how much oxygen is present in the exhaust. From this information, the computer can tell how well the fuel is burning and how much fuel should be added or subtracted to obtain right mixture of air and fuel.

3. Catalytic converter - this is where the gaseous wastes are turned into water vapor and carbon dioxide.

4. Muffler - this part helps in reducing noise in the exhausts system. Some mufflers are made of fiberglass to absorb the sound energy as the gases flow through it.

5. Exhaust Pipe - this part carries the gaseous waste out of the tail pipe. It is usually made of steel or stainless steel.

Auto Parts Inner advices car users not to delay replacement of damaged exhaust system parts to avoid serious accidents and unwanted expenses. A clogged and glowing catalytic converter indicates serious problem so don't delay replacing it. You can find at Auto Parts Inner highly efficient Ford catalytic converters, Toyota catalytic converters, Chevy catalytic converters and Volkswagen catalytic converters as well as high quality Chevy mufflers.

Terry Brown is a 32 year old from Houston Texas, and an enthusiast for anything auto-related. He currently writes auto-related articles for several publications.

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Buyer Beware of Flood Damaged Used Cars

Is a flood car coming to a town near you?

Hurricanes have done major devastation to the southern coastline, and the clean up project will likely take years to return things to some what normal. What I am concerned about is the potentially HUGE number of vehicles that will soon come on the market to be sold as used cars. The problem is not that the vehicle is used, but that it is potentially a casualty of the hurricanes and high water. These used cars are generally known in the business as "flood cars."

Now I know what you are thinking, "I don't live in these Southern areas, so I am not at risk of unknowingly purchasing one of these flood cars." Sorry, but you are dead wrong...actually the farther away you live from the hurricane damage, the greater you are at risk for being scammed into buying one of these cars.

Why are you more at risk? Think about it. The flood damage took place in New Orleans, don't you think that the residents there know that used cars on the market in that area have a HUGE potential to be flood cars? You bet they know that.

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But do you think the used car buyers in Arizona would suspect flood cars were brought into their area? Probably not, and the scam artists behind these flood cars know this. I would suspect theses car will be on the used car market for about a year...maybe more. This issue is huge and will hurt many people who make the mistake and purchase one of these vehicles.

What is the big deal about a car that got water inside it if it seems to run just fine? Great question...even if I made it up myself. The engine itself might be fine, and long term engine damage might not have occurred, but there are many other components of the vehicle that can seem to be working normally now, but can deteriorate in the near future.

Electrical components and wiring are usually affected most. There is a ton of complex wiring under the hood, in the dashboard, and under the carpeting of the vehicle. Water gets inside the vehicle from underneath from holes in the frame and body and around the door openings. If the carpet gets wet, so does the vast network of wiring under the carpet. The carpet can easily be replaced, but the wiring under the vehicle is usually too complex and therefore too expensive to replace, so new carpet is laid on top of them, concealing potential damage.

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So what if the wires get wet? Rust my dear friend. Rust is your enemy, and rust you will soon have. These wires will now slowly begin to break down and rust will form on any part of the wire that is not protected. When the electricity traveling inside these wires makes contact with this rust, it will make a ground, and the electricity will stop traveling. Whatever component the electricity was traveling to, a fuel pump for instance, will soon stop working. Finding the trouble spot in the miles of wire is not an easy task. The carpets and seat will probably have to be removed and hours of diagnostic time will probably be accumulated as the mechanic tries to find the trouble spot.

In most cars, the onboard computer system is located in the lower part of the passenger dashboard area, just inches above the carpeting. Some Japanese vehicles have the computer located under the passenger seat, on top of the carpet! If the computer system gets wet, not only will it need to be replaced, but it can damage many other electrical components as well.

The computer can be replaced now, and all might seem well, but the rust will soon make its way to these other electrical components and a domino effect will probably start to happen. One sensor after another will fail, intermittent electrical problems will begin to happen, and your pocketbook will soon start to feel the ill effects of multiple monthly mechanic visits. I consider rust the cancer of automobiles, you have to keep cutting and cutting and cutting to stop its growth.

--- Inspect Before You Buy. Ase Certified Automotive Technician teaches you how to properly inspect a used vehicle.  ---

Transmissions are another big ticket item that can be affected by water and not show symptoms for some time. When moisture enters the transmission, the normally light pink fluid becomes a light white/pinkish frothy mix, like a strawberry milkshake. The entire workings of the transmission are extremely complex and full of wires, sensors, and lots of rubber seals and O-rings. The water will cause the rubber parts to swell and leak, and the sensors and electrical components will soon succumb to rust and water damage as well.

So what can you do to protect yourself from buying a flooded time bomb?

1. Be cautious of every used car on the market.

2. Take your time inspecting and test driving. A good deal today is usually a good deal tomorrow too, so don't succumb to pushy sales people.

3. Inspect under the driver and passenger seats for obvious signs of rust on the seat tracks and metal seat frame.

4. Look at the headliner (the fabric on the roof inside the car). Once wet, the glue that holds this fabric in place will begin to weaken, and the fabric will begin to fall down completely, or will fall in small sections that will look like bubbles.

5. Inspect the undercarriage and the exhaust system for signs of large scale rust. I would expect a small amount of rust as being normal; ask your mechanic if you have questions.

6. Use your nose. If the inside of the vehicle smells damp and moldy, or feels damp to your skin...run!

7. Remove the wheels and inspect the brakes. This should be done anyway if you are inspecting a used car, but rust damage will really show itself on the brake components.

8. Inspect all under-hood fluids for water contamination. Oil and water will look like a chocolate milkshake, oil and transmission or power steering fluid will look like a strawberry milkshake.

9. Get the dealership or the seller to give you a written statement that to the best of their knowledge that 1. the car has not been in a flood, and 2. the car was not involved in any type of insurance claim that might have resulted in the original owner selling the vehicle to their insurance company as a "total loss."

10. Get a CarFax report. These reports can provide very valuable information about the car, but I would not rely solely on them. CarFax may not have complete or updated information critical to your decision.

11. Look in the trunk under the caper ting and under the spare tire. Water and rust will tend to puddle here since it is one of the lowest places of the vehicle. If you see standing water, or signs of rust in and around the spare tire area it is probably a flood damaged vehicle and should be avoided.

My website provides one of the best used car checklists I have been able to find. I highly recommend a would-be-buyer to print it out and follow the step-by-step guide. If you aren't in the market for a used car yourself, be sure to pass this article and checklist information on to your co-workers, friends, and family who are.

Austin Davis operates a car repair advice website filled with insider tips about auto repair related issues.  Visit his site at http://www.trustmymechanic.com" title="http://www.trustmymechanic.com" target="_blank"http://www.trustmymechanic.co... to learn more about your vehicle.

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Did the Oil Companies Rob Us?

During the hurricane season, starting right after the flooding of New Orleans, gas prices soared to unheard of levels. This was blamed on supply and demand. After all, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita had affected crude oil production in the Gulf of Mexico. People lined up to buy gas before it ran out. That sure didn't help matters.

Here's the thing though, oil companies reported record profits. Exxon Mobil Corp. earned $9.92 billion, up 75 percent from the third quarter of last year. BP's profits rose to $6.5 billion and Chevron reported $3.6 billion in profits. Gee, I thought the hurricanes were hurting them. Sure, I know, that is irrelevant to the law of supply and demand, but it looks very very suspicious. Let's be honest, oil companies are all about making money, period, end of sentence. The thing is with oil and gas, we the consumers are usually up the creek without a barrel. We have to have gas to get to work. The oil companies know it, and I believe they rode the panic caused by the recent hurricanes to line their pockets.

Right around the time of the tragedy in New Orleans, news reporters happened to mention that the hurricane could cause gas prices to go up. It was only the very next day that gas started going up in my area even though we are practically in the middle of the country. How could the decrease in production have hit so fast at the pump unless someone was taking advantage of the situation big time? Oil companies were not sweating and wringing their hands nervously saying, "Oh no, what are we going to do, gas prices are rising.", but the average Joe wasn't all smiles.

Thankfully, gas prices are on the way back down at this point near the holiday season. Nobody is running to the pump in panic, and the Senate may have had some affect on the industry when they made a big stink about it demanding answers from the big CEOs of the oil companies like Lee Raymond, Exxon Mobil's CEO. So, what brought prices down? Was it yelling and screaming by the government, or simply the law of supply and demand. It sure wasn't a sudden feeling of Christmas brotherly love on the part of the oil companies, that we can be assured of.

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Auto Parts Online Offers Great New Interior and Exterior Auto Parts, Performance Parts and Car Accessories and More Exciting Deals

Furthering its commitment to give you the best choices and the most affordable deals without sacrificing the quality of the products, Auto Parts Online, the country's leading Auto Parts Store expands its product line of top quality Ford Parts, Jeep parts, Toyota parts, Chevy parts, BMW parts, GMC parts and a whole lot more.

Now included in its list of top-rated auto parts are great variety of performance parts such as AC compressor, alternator, head gasket, harmonic balancer, intake manifold, speed sensor, starter, valve cover, and distributor among others.

Joining Auto Parts Online's unparalleled line of top quality auto lights and car accessories are stylish and highly durable clear corners, projector headlight, towing mirror, wheel cover, floor liner, cargo liner and mud guards. Better than ever, all these new premium grade auto parts are available in more exciting Auto Parts Discount deals.

Let's identify and discuss briefly the use of some of these new auto parts and the importance of these products to your vehicle's ultimate driving performance.

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AC Compressor. This is a part of the AC system. It performs a vital task of moving the liquid around the pipe. It pumps and forces the liquid or the refrigerant gas out from the evaporator where it absorbed the heat coming from the car's cabin. In the compressor, the gas is compressed before it is transferred to the condenser where actual heat dissipation occurs.

Oxygen Sensor. This particular auto part is an essential part of the exhaust system. It is a hollow tube that is inserted into the exhaust manifold to measure how much oxygen is present in the exhaust so that the computer can either add or subtract certain amount of fuel to obtain an adequate mixture of air and fuel. A high quality oxygen sensor can help you achieve maximum fuel economy and efficiency.

Projector Headlight. These are special types of headlights that produce stronger beam and a more focused illumination; thus these headlights have less "scatter loss." It is named as such because it was designed like a slide projector.

Headlights and other auto lights are very important to one's safety; thus, they are essential in every vehicle. Aside from keeping the car visible as it moves down the road, lights provide illumination for you to drive by, signal other drivers that you are going to stop, turn or move to another lane.

Mud Guard. Among the many useful accessories in a car, truck, SUV or van are the mud guards. Although these auto parts or accessories may not totally or significantly affect the performance of your vehicle, these are essential in keeping your vehicle clean and away from impurities such as mud, slush and stones that could speed up deterioration or corrosion of other parts in your vehicle.

Towing Mirror. These are special types of mirrors that are used to aid in towing. They may be used to replace or they may be attached to the outside mirrors to provide additional visibility and safety.

Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

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Hummer - an intruduction.

Hummer was first developed as military vehicle for the American military by AM General Corporation. The vehicle was than called an HMMWV or Humvee and was a very important part of the US military due to its cross country capabilities. AM General Corporation started the work of creating civil version of the humvee during the 80s. One of the main points in the development was to keep the qualities that made the car so good for the military in the civil version just adding extra comfort.

There was for a long time no dealers that sold this car that costed 50 000$ at the time and those who wanted to buy one had to go to the factory to do so. The first Hummer sold to a civilian was sold in 1991 to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger which only helped to improve the cars macho image. The civilian model of the Hummer caught the attention of the world and the American consumers during the adventure tour were two Hummers drove from London to Beijing through the rough roads of Russia and the former soviet union.

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General motors later started selling hummers and eventually ended up buying the brand name Hummer. The later models of Hummers like the H2 and H3 are developed by GM for civilian consumers and have never needed to live up to the standards that were needed for the first model in the military service. This does not mean that they are bad cars just that things like comfort have had a larger influence on the development. The latest model is in fact developed to be a suitable family car and to work well as a city car. The latest model also has more high tech features and more safety features designed for families.

Hummers have a high ground clearance, double of a standard SUV, to allow them to traverse rough terrain. This means that a hummer can go almost anywhere. They can go up and down steep hills and can easily climb a 16 inch vertical rock. Hummer cars also have a very high tolerance for water and can traverse relatively deep streams. Hummer also features a long row of different functions to allow the driver supreme control regardless of the terrain. An example on one such features is the Central Tire Inflation System which allows the driver to control the pressure in all 4 tires individually from the driver seat.

Hummers are today sold with a large number of accessories and can be customized according to the individual customers need. Examples on such customizations are bullet proof hummers and the today relatively well know hummer limousine.

Read about the new Hummer models like the HUMMER3 - H3 and the comming model HUMMER 4 - H4 that is currently under development.

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Tips On Creating A Personalized Show Board, Great Pictures - Part 2

In part one of this series we discussed how to create a show board that will be unique, and be an extension of your personality. In this article we will provide you with some tips on taking great photographs for display on your show board, or for wall hangings. The evolution of computer graphics has been carried into the automotive photography industry making car art explode. However, in order to get a high quality print, the photographs which are the foundation must meet minimum quality standards. Computer graphics can correct for some photography errors, but not all, and often these corrections take time, and time is money, your money.

This article will focus on photography tips that I have learned over the years which have been helpful. When displaying your vehicle at a show, enthusiasts like yourself pay close attention to every detail down to the shine on the bolts to ensure that the car is perfect. The end quality of your display is dependent upon your attention to details. Whenever I take a photograph or create art I do exactly the same. Starting with the right photographs is key.

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Before taking your pictures keep in mind the following suggestions so you will get the best possible results.

1. So many of your vehicles shine like a mirror, so it is important not to have it directly in bright sun to minimize the glare. Graphic tools can remove some of this from the picture, but often specific details such as emblems will be washed out and can not be restored. Pay attention to any reflections and shadowing that could make body panels look like a poor paint job or in need of body work. Also make sure that your reflection is not visible.

2. Often there are small replica cars in the rear window or on display elsewhere in the car. If you have tinted windows often the replica will not be clear. I suggest that you take pictures both with the model showing, and with it removed.

3. Remove any window plaques, displays or show stickers or items hanging from your mirror that you do not want to be in the photograph. They look great at a show, but could detract from the final photograph.

4. Background selection is key. Unless you want the background where you are taking the photographs to be included in the final work, it is best to park the vehicle in front of a plain background such as a building or where there are no cars in the background. This will help with the editing for the fantasy graphics work.

5. Take a series of photographs with all doors, hood, trunk are completely closed. This series should include the following shots. - Straight on from the front - Straight on from the back - Left front quarter to side panel shot - Right front quarter to side panel shot - Straight on left/right side - Real quarter panel shot.

Many of you will have areas that are special to you, such as an emblem, gas cap, dash board, steering wheel, or even a specific body part. Take a photograph of each of these areas and incorporate them into the art work.

For some examples of the views above, refer to http://www.PalmieriConcepts.com" title="http://www.PalmieriConcepts.com" target="_blank"http://www.PalmieriConcepts.c...  in the "Photo Tips" Section.

Anthony Palmieri founded Palmieri Concepts, www.PalmieriConcepts.com after 20 years of creating custom art work for his own pleasure and enjoyment. This business grew out of a love for motor vehicles and was started to share with others what started out as a hobby.

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Dodge: Awesome and Invigorated!

If you are a car fan you know that part of the fun of following the market is examining new models as they enter the showroom. There is just something special about a new car: the smell, the look, the price tag! For some 17 million American drivers a new car is in their future, while many others opt for the used car market. Some of the cars on the market today are hot, hot, hot! Let's take a look at several new and future offerings from Dodge.

Thanks in part to new ownership [Daimler Benz purchased the Chrysler Corporation in 1998] a fresh infusion of great looking Dodge models have hit a showroom near you. Additional models are soon to appear and the makeover that Dodge has been receiving is nothing less than astounding. Here are some of my favorites:

Magnum - Who said that a station wagon should resemble a family hauler? The Magnum sure doesn't. With an intimidating grille and a rakish exterior, the Magnum is a true man pleaser while also giving women a bit extra room in the back to haul stuff. Throw in a Hemi and the Magnum truly rocks!

Charger - Okay, so the new Charger has four doors. Well, you can't have everything. You can have macho looks, a powerful engine, and a car that is certain to compete with anything that Japan or Germany throws its way. Word has it that DaimlerChrysler is considering a coupe version. Now, wouldn't that be cool!

Caliber - Bye, bye Neon. The Neon served Dodge well, but it isn't in the same caliber as the Caliber. Pun intended. To be introduced in Spring 2006 as a 2007 model, the Caliber will have three engine choices: 1.8, 2.0, and 2.4 I4s, a continuously available transaxle, and all wheel drive. In addition, 2.0L diesel engines will be available outside of the North American market - why not here? - as DaimlerChrysler sets to introduce the Dodge name into new markets.

Other Dodge vehicles that are getting noticed include the Ram and Dakota pick up trucks, the Durango SUV and the soon to be introduced Dodge Nitro, the division's version of the compact Jeep Liberty. Oh, yeah, who could forget the 510-hp V10 Viper? Can you say, Corvette beater?

One word you can't associate with Dodge anymore is the word, "boring." Exciting cars, trucks, and SUVs for a market craving these types of hot vehicles. I guess the "ram" insignia really does befit the name.

Copyright 2005 -- Matt Keegan is a contributing writer for the Auto Parts Warehouse, a wholesaler of discount Dodge parts and accessories.

Auto entry tools and lockout tools

Auto entry tools and lockout tools are widely available through a variety of manufacturers for the security professional and the locksmith that specializes in lockouts.

Opening Locked Cars - Auto opening can be a lucrative part of any locksmithing business. For some, it's the only source of income. Lockout specialists can command anywhere from $30 - 90 per hour!

Bill Phillips, author of LOCKSMITHING explains vehicle opening in detail. "In order to understand how to open a locked vehicle, you need to understand how vehicle locks work. In most cases, a locked vehicle can be opened by lifting up or pushing down on the lock pawl, pulling the lock rod up, puching the lock rod forward, lifting the lock rod button, or by picking the lock. The lock pawl can generally be manipulated with an L-shaped tool. Doors with vertical lock rods can usually be opened by using a tool to hook the lock rod and pull it up.

Doors with horizontal lock rods can usually be opened by using a tool to hook the rod and pulling it forward."

---  Automotive Troubleshooting Secrets.  Automotive Repair/Maintenance Courseware.  ---

Naturally, a security professional or a locksmith will use auto opening tools that are not available in the local hardware store to do the job right.

There are a lot of manuals available on the subject of automobile opening. Some of the publishers also sell lockout tools and kits. The manuals are full of invaluable information for the lockout specialist or security professional and the lock opening information is updated regularly to keep up with all the new models of cars coming onto the market.

Typical multi-tool auto opening kits will contain several L tools of different sizes, several different sizes of tools for lifting a lock button rod and generally a wedge of two. ProLok makes some excellent auto opening (lockout) kits.

My Recommended Resource For Auto Entry Tools is LPS - Locksmith Parts and Supplies

A lot of people know about using a slim jim as they are often sold in auto supply stores. It wasn't that long ago that almost any locked vehicle could be opened by inserting a flat piece of metal into the door between the car window and the weather stripping, then moving it up and down and left to right until it caught something that unlocked the door. Times (and automobile locks) have changed considerably. Automobile manufacturers are making cars much more difficult to open. Manufacturers are building lock systems with more anti-jimmy components. The flat piece of metal isn't nearly as effective as it used to be...nor is the wire hanger we've all used at one time or another to try to pop the lock.

Our advice? Don't try to get into a locked vehicle without the key unless you're a pro. You can do some real damage to your car and destroy the weather stripping...at the very least. Using a slim jim, homemade or otherwise can severely damage a car's locking system that may prevent the operation of the car door locks with the key. Learning to use the newest auto entry tools, or paying a pro to do the job will save you and your family a lot of headaches.

Glynn Gallagher manages marketing for L.P.S. - Locksmith Parts and Supplies a company supplying the Locksmith, Recovery, & Law Enforcement communites with locksmith, lock out and lock picking tools. Glynn also manages marketing for Lock-Picking.org an informational website for locksmith students.

How To Buy & Sell Cars For Profit!  Here´s all about it. Make $300 - 3000 a car. Work from home. Learn how with no experience and little cash. Part time or full time. Make yourself independent or keep your old job and earn a residual income!

Truck Performance 101 - A beginner's guide

Today, the aftermarket gives truck owners more performance options than ever before. However, all the new products and gizmos can be a little hard to sort through. What you need for your specific truck will depend on what type of truck you have and what you use it for.

What is performance? Basically, it is the word used to describe speed, fuel consumption rate and towing ability. Performance is primarily measured in terms of horsepower (HP) and Torque.

Horsepower, or HP, is by definition, the power of an engine in comparison to horses. For example, a truck with 100 horsepower is as fast as 100 horses all rolled into one. Horsepower is often indicative of a truck's top speed. Horsepower does not necessarily mean that a truck is fast from a standing start (see torque) but instead it is often indicative of the speed attainable by a particular truck. This being said other factors such as weight and grade will impact the final speed achieved. In more scientific terms, HP is the common measurement when rating an engine's power. One horsepower equals 500 ft-lbs. per second, which is basically the power needed to lift 550 pounds one foot off the ground in exactly one second or the power needed to lift 33,000 pounds one foot off the ground in exactly one minute.

Torque refers to a truck's ability to generate pick up. Torque is one of the most important factors at the beginning of any non-rolling start. It is the ability of the truck to send power to the wheels and turn them - moving the entire truck forward. The dictionary defines it as: "The moment of a force; the measure of a force's tendency to produce torsion and rotation about an axis...". The most important thing to remember is that torque is what gets the truck rolling and is very important in towing.

The basics of performance, of course, center on your engine. Think of your engine as basically a big air pump. It breathes air in through the air intake and breathes it out through the exhaust. The easier your engine can breathe the more performance it will deliver. The stock engine you received from the factory comes with OEM air induction and exhaust. Modifying these two areas is relatively easy and can deliver significant increases in both HP and torque. One other primary factor affecting your performance is the engines computer. The stock OEM computer your truck came with is set to a "safe mode" to protect the truck against virtually any driver error...e.g., redlining. Although these settings are meant to protect the truck, they can impede performance significantly. Tweaking your truck's computer can significantly increase HP and torque while still providing safety to the engine. We'll look at each of these three performance enhancements below.

Air Intake
The air intake primarily consists of your vehicle's air filter. Stock air filters are made of pleated paper. The problem with pleated paper is it often tends to become clogged which greatly reduces the airflow. Fragments of paper are ingested or sucked into the intake system creating a hole for gritty contaminants to enter the engine. In addition, these filters have to be replaced often to maintain a basic level of performance. Aftermarket filters are made of cotton gauze or engineered foam. These filters, made by companies like K&N, Airaid, Green Filter and True Flow significantly increase the flow of air through the filter. In addition, these filters defend against dirt at twice the rate or more than their paper counterparts and most come with a lifetime warranty...that's one filter for the life of your vehicle. Installation of these filters is super easy...just replace your existing factory air filter.

The second factor effecting air intake is the temperature of the air coming into the engine. You've probably noticed that your truck runs better on cold days. That is because the air is denser and denser air allows more combustion when mixed with fuel and ignited. Stronger combustion means more power to move your piston in the cylinder. Aftermarket companies...many of the same mentioned above...have developed systems called "Cold Air Intakes", that move the point of air intake from the top of your engine, which is normally very hot, to a point outside the engine. The result is that the air being sucked into your engine is much cooler than it would be using the normal air filter location. Cold air intakes require a little more handyman skills that just replacing a filter. However, they can be installed easily by anyone that has basic tools.

Exhaust Systems
Exhaust is the "exhale" to your engines lungs. The more twists and turns in the exhaust, the less your vehicle can breathe easily. Exhaust systems come with three primary elements...the muffler, exhaust pipes and muffler tips. The first two are the main ingredients that effect HP and torque. OEM factory exhausts are well made, but not designed to deliver maximum performance. Aftermarket systems from companies like Magnaflow, Banks and Gibson are engineered specifically for each truck and are designed to get the most out of your vehicle. In addition to more power, these systems also deliver an enviable "roar" that will let others know you have tricked out your truck. I do not recommend installing an exhaust system unless you are a true gear head and are prepared for cutting and welding. Although most muffler shops do not carry these products, they will be glad to install them for you.

Computer Chips and Programmers
Your truck's computer is technically referred to by gear heads as the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU that controls the engine is very complicated. OEM's program them to satisfy emissions requirements, meet EPA fuel economy requirements and protect the engine against abuse. The computer does this by controlling many aspects of the vehicles performance, but primarily controls the ignition, fuel injection and spark time. As mentioned above, the OEM's set the default value of the ECU to an "ultra-safe" mode to insure adherence to government guidelines and to protect the engine from abusive driving. Aftermarket companies like Hypertech, Edge, Unichip and Superchips manufacturer chips and programmers that will either plug into your ECU or programmers that will alter the factory settings. Chip manufacturers set the products for each specific vehicle to a default performance setting. Programmer manufacturers allow more versatility in that they allow custom modifications to compensate for other performance add-ons like cold air kits and exhaust systems. These systems are relatively easy to install by anyone that has a little mechanical knowledge.

In conclusion, you can significantly increase your HP and Speed by just making these basic changes to your truck. Some all-in-one kits can deliver up to a 40% increase in overall performance. Finally, contrary to rumor, none of these products will void the warranty of your truck. There is a federal law called the "Magnuson Moss Warranty Act" that prevents automobile manufacturers from voiding warranties from the addition of aftermarket products. These are just a few of the many performance products available from the aftermarket. I will be covering more advanced performance products, like superchargers, in a subsequent article.

Mark Lane is a recognized industry expert of aftermarket automotive products. He is a member of SEMA and runs a blog site dedicated to truck enthusiasts. For more information about Mr. Lane, and to view other truck accessory and performance related articles, visit his site, TruckAccessories.BlogSpot.com

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3 Exceptional European Automakers

When you think of exceptional cars that are built in Europe, does your mind run strictly to cars made by Rolls Royce, BMW, or Mercedes? Perhaps Jaguar and Lamborghini come to mind as well. Each of these makes deserve all the accolades given to them. Still, there are three makes that are, for various reasons, exceptional. Let's take a look at Volvo, Volkswagen, and Audi, the three makes featured in this article.

For a country of just nine million to produce one automaker would be amazing enough. To lay claim to two automakers is simply phenomenal. Both Volvo and Saab are from this particular country which is Sweden. Now a part of Ford Motor Company, Volvo has greatly influenced the automobile industry over the years. Safety standards that had been universally low elsewhere are much more appreciated with Volvo. Front end crumple zones, reinforced roofs and specially designed interiors have all had their origin with Volvo. Out of these high safety standards have come a line of cars that are, indeed, some of the best built and safest cars on the road. Fortunately, through Volvo's leadership, many automakers around the world have incorporated Volvo's high safety standard. This is what makes Volvo exceptional in my eyes.

The company that brought to the world the first people's car, the Beetle, is also exceptional. First designed in Germany during the 1930s, the Beetle survived World War II and was one of the most mass produced and loved cars in the world. From the 1950s forward the Beetle managed to make motorized transportation available to people who otherwise could not afford a car. From college students in the US to migrant workers in Mexico and from the gritty cities of Holland to the Irish farmlands, the Beetle made owning a car affordable the majority of the masses. Even after importation to the US ceased during the 1970s, the Beetle was produced for another generation and sold in Mexico.

Without drawing out the point too far, the term that best describes Audi's quattro technology is "superior handling." Perhaps that is an understatement but when Audi introduced quattro all wheel drive the company threw the gauntlet down and told the rest of the auto making world that quattro was the standard by which all luxury sedans would be judged. Audi's quattro technology has given the company such a huge advantage over competitors that over the years it has been banned from certain types of racing. Indeed, Audi's quattro technology provides continuous traction long past when other road handling schematics have reached their threshold.

So, there you have it. Three truly exceptional automobiles from the European continent, exceptional in ways, perhaps, that should be labeled as extraordinary.

Matt Keegan writes for The Parts Bin, a retailer of high quality Volvo parts, VW parts, and Audi parts available to you at deeply discounted prices.

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Thousands of cars become government & bank property every day through various seizure and surplus laws. The constant exchange of vehicles and the enormous expense to store them, means amazing deals and guaranteed rock bottom prices for you! As Much as 80% - 90% OFF!

5 Steps to A Great Rental Car Experience

There are times in one's life when the use of rental cars cannot be avoided. When someone plows into you at an intersection, when you are taking a 2-day trip and your compact car just does not have enough room to stretch out, these are times when you are happy that there are rental cars at your disposal. Before you rent that car, though, you should know some things about the process.

1- The first step involved in obtaining a rental car is to do research on the companies in your local area. There are a number of nation wide companies and more than likely local companies to choose from when conducting your research. Try to narrow them down to three or four companies that are closest to either your pick up location or your destination.

2- You will want to ask about procedures that may be required by the rental company. Many companies require that the car be fueled up before its return, if this is not done, they will charge you extra for it. It may also be in your best interest to ask what the fee would be if the car is needed for longer than expected as well as what the rate is for late drop off.

3- If you have personal auto insurance, call your agent to see if you are insured with a rental car as well. This will allow you to save money by turning down the insurance offered by the rental company at the time of vehicle pick up.

4- Finally, you have chosen the company and the car, its time to pick it up. Make sure that you have the paper work that you will need. Most companies will require you to show your drivers license, be sure to have it. Also, your proof of auto insurance, if you will be turning their insurance down. A major credit card is necessary; if you are not using cash to rent your car, do not count on them taking a check.

5- Be sure to read the contract and ask questions about anything that you do not understand. It's better to take sometime at the counter or on the phone to pin down the details, than to think you got it and have to deal with the company in the event of an accident. Ask questions!

John Mancini writes about rental cars online and offline. You can read more about national car rental and thrifty car rental on his websites.

State Auctions - Find Cars and Homes at lowest Auction Prices!

Like all of us, cars occasionally get sick as well; thus, they need to be regularly checked and maintained to keep them in proper working condition as much as possible. Keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape and condition--whether it's a regular passenger car, a truck, a sport utility or a van--may require you to change some of its auto parts, especially if your vehicle is an older model. Car parts wear out over time so you would need to upgrade them or replace them with higher quality parts.

This is where Auto Parts Deal can be of great help to you. This leading auto parts dealer provides the best options for your replacement part needs. The store offers top of the line BMW parts, Mercedes Benz parts, Ford truck parts, Chevrolet parts and so much more. Whether you are in need of auto parts to upgrade your auto, enhance its looks or simply to replace worn out or faulty parts, you can count on Auto Parts Deal.

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Aside from top quality automotive products, you can find here the best deals even on hard to find auto parts for older vehicles. All parts are sourced from the top auto parts manufacturers so be confident that you are getting no less than the best and perfect-fit auto parts for your auto.

Today's featured products include OEM-quality body and exterior auto parts like hood, bumpers, doors, fender, spoilers, wheels and headlights. These parts are exposed to a lot of damaging factors so they need to be properly maintained. The wheels specially are the ones closest to the road so they must be kept in perfect condition all the time.

Explore the store's web site to know more of these products and also for you to see Auto Parts Deal's wider range of auto parts. Meanwhile, you can check the following automotive information, which you may need as you maintain your vehicle.

***  Automotive Troubleshooting Secrets. Automotive Repair/Maintenance Courseware.  ***

Auto Parts Deal imparts to you some technical know-how on common car problems. Before you proceed to buy your replacement parts, check if these signs and symptoms are present in your car's systems and parts.

Overheating. You would know your car is overheating when steam starts to billow from your engine compartment. There are many reasons why a car overheats; one could be the lack of water and coolant in the cooling system. Furthermore, there could be some damages to the cooling system parts like the radiator, the water pump and the gaskets. Your car may also be overloaded so you need to unload some of your cargoes.

In case you need replacement radiators, you can go to Auto Parts Deal. Available are hard wearing and high quality Ford radiators, Chevrolet radiators,GMC radiators, Jeep radiators and Honda radiators.

Starting Failure. If your engine fails to start, there could be something wrong with the ignition system. The starter could be damaged and needs to be replaced. Also, check the fuel filter. Even when not specified in your manual, you need to replace the fuel filter often, not just clean it, to ensure that your engine is getting clean fuel for combustion. This further ensures your vehicle's maximum performance.

Brake failure. If your brake fails to hold and you hear screeching sound, better go to a mechanic immediately and have your brake checked. Faulty brakes are among the major causes of car accidents so don't wait for another day to go to a repair shop. Moreover, check your tires and wheels.

Replacement wheels can be bought at Auto Parts Deal as well. Remanufactured and new alloy and steel wheels with or without hubcaps, including best quality Jeep wheels, Mazda wheels, BMW wheels and Toyota wheels are available.

Rust and Corrosion. Over time, some parts of your car may wear out due to rust. This is especially true to body panels, including the doors, the hood, and the fenders. Rust is not good for your car since it could depreciate the value of your vehicle. The best way to avoid it is to clean your vehicle regularly.

If your body parts have been severely damaged by rust, you may have no other choice but to replace them. Keeping them good looking is a must, especially if still wish to resell it in the future in case you would want to buy a new and more up-to-date model. You can check out the store's featured exterior parts and body panels such as Toyota doors, Ford hood and Honda fender.

As a manager of one of the largest auto stores in Springfield, Massachussets, Sarah has extensive expertise on auto parts and automotives in general. This 42 year old is a certified car enthusiast.

Find your Car at real low prices at CheapCarFinder.com - Repossessed Cars!

EXPOSED: Foreign Oil, Auto Industry, Hybrid and Fuel Cell Vehicles

Can our soaring gas prices and dependence on foreign oil turn out to be a blessing in disguise?

It seems as though the most effective way to reach consumers is through our pocketbook. Once more we are outraged at high fuel prices and demanding something be done about it.

The auto industry has the technology to build fuel efficient cars, it has had much of this technology for decades, but it has not developed this technology into cost effective mass marketed vehicles. Why? Because the consumer has not demanded it. No matter what, the auto industry is and always will be consumer driven.

As long as the consumer continues to purchase what the industry is putting out, they will keep building what they are building. Granted, because of emission controls and higher mileage standards over the years we now have less harmful emissions and better mileage than we did twenty years ago. While this has been a great start we cannot let that become a stopping point.

Let's take realistic look at where we are today and how we, as consumers, can help insure a more cost efficient and healthier future for ourselves, our children and generations to come. We now have hybrid cars that provide much better fuel efficiency and less pollutants, and fuel cell vehicles that use no gasoline and produce no harmful emissions.

Both hybrid and fuel cell vehicles are currently being used in mass transit systems in many selected U.S.cities as well as in Canada and Germany that include city transit buses, taxis, and delivery vehicles such as UPS.

Military vehicles - In April, the U.S. Army took delivery of the modified fuel cell Chevrolet Silverado that is capable of generating 188 kW and 317 foot-pounds of torque, or roughly the motor torque generated by GM's 5.3 liter V-8 engine. This is the first time the vehicle has been driven in California. It will be delivered to the Marines at Camp Pendleton, Calif., later this year for demonstration and evaluation.

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Directory of when & where Government & Police Auctions take place.  ***

"This vehicle has spent the last few months performing civilian-type duty at Ft. Belvoir, Va. where Army soldiers have been evaluating its performance and learning first-hand about hydrogen and fuel cells," said Dr. McClelland, director Tank-Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) of the U.S. Army.

World's First Individual Fuel Cell Vehicle Customer

California Hydrogen Highway - The Spallino family, living in the Los Angeles area, will be among the first individuals to begin utilizing the first of California's Hydrogen Highway refueling stations, a statewide infrastructure build out underway to offer hydrogen refueling station access to private individuals. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced the state's commitment to a Hydrogen Highway in April of this year, creating a public and private partnership to build California's Hydrogen Highway by 2010

In the Chino project, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage SUVs, powered by fuel cells manufactured by UTC Fuel Cells, will operate throughout Southern California and refuel at the ChevronTexaco hydrogen station. Of particular importance is the on-site production of hydrogen from natural gas. Natural gas, with an existing distribution infrastructure, is critical to the eventual transition to the hydrogen economy. This station will also have the future capability to convert other renewable fuel sources, such as ethanol, into hydrogen for refueling fuel cell vehicles.

Hydrogen Fueling Station - The EPA has commissioned a hydrogen fueling station at its National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Lab in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The station provides compressed hydrogen gas for hydrogen vehicles in Southeast Michigan.

The lab in Ann Arbor, Michigan is the first federal facility to install such a vehicle fueling station. This state-of-the art station serves as a real world example for others of the safe installation and operation of a hydrogen fueling station. In addition to supporting the Fuel Cell Delivery Vehicle Testing Program, this station will also be used for the fueling of hydrogen fueled vehicles deployed in the future in Michigan.

So perhaps our future is looking brighter with less dependence on foreign oil and a good start for achieving cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone. But it rests in our hands, each of us, the consumers, and what choices we make that will determine our future.

Permission is granted to publish this article so long as the byline and source are kept intact, the links remain active and you do not make any changes.

Cheryl Dixon is an avid researcher for fuel saving and environmentally safe vehicles. The results of her continuing research and latest news can be found on her blog: http://hybridandfuelcellc ars.featureblog.com" title="http://hybridandfuelcellc ars.featureblog.com" target="_blank"http://hybridandfuelcellc ars.... and on her website: http://www.hybridandfuelcellcars.com" title="http://www.hybridandfuelcellcars.com" target="_blank"http://www.hybridandfuelcellc... 

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Give Your Auto TLC, It's Fall Car Care Month.

October has been designated as the Fall Car Care Month by the Car Care Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating motorists about proper vehicle care and maintenance. This time of the year is perfect time to prepare for the approaching winter months, that is, to repair or replace the car's old and worn out auto parts, have all its systems and components checked or get the car properly serviced by a mechanic.

Fall and winter months are the harshest months for vehicles, especially those hard to maintain automobiles; thus, you need to give your vehicle extra care during these months. Why wait for those agonizing months when you can keep your auto fit ahead of time. As early as now, work on your car's problems, even the minor ones. Simple things like weatherstripping your windows for example can make your ride a lot more comfortable and stress-free.

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By means of weatherstripping the windows, doors, windshield, trunk and other parts of your auto, you are not only making your car air and watertight but safer as well. Small wholes and gaps on the window frames cause the glass to rattle, which is annoying and risky at the same time because the glass might break as you drive through bumpy roads.

Find premium quality Toyota weatherstripping, Honda weatherstripping, Ford weatherstripping, Chevy weatherstripping and more from Auto Parts Wholesale. This store also offers great choices of replacement and aftermarket auto parts made to match your car's original parts.

Another way to prepare your auto is by making sure that all your lights are working and are properly aimed. Of course after long years of using your car's original lights, you would need to replace them as well. Be sure to install high quality and durable auto lights. You can go to Auto Parts Wholesale for these lights. This store features great variety of lights including high quality and stylish Toyota headlights, Dodge fog lights, and Honda taillights.

The fog lights are very important during fall and winter seasons because these lights provide low illumination that helps you pass through thick fog, snow and rain. They are specially designed to keep you safe while driving through the worst weather conditions. Especially if you are driving in mountainous areas at night and early in the morning, you need quality fog lights to illuminate the road ahead of you. Your headlights when used in circumstances such as this might be futile or worse, dangerous since they emit stronger light that produces glare.

Keep your car wheels including the tires at their best condition. Make sure that that the tires are properly inflated to avoid misfortunes on the road. Likewise, check on the car's air conditioning, heat, exhaust, cooling, starting and electrical systems. Should you need replacement for any of the original auto parts, don't hesitate replacing it. Spending some extra cash for new replacement auto parts isn't a bad idea especially if your safety, comfort and convenience are at stake.

Check out the store's featured premium quality replacement auto parts including Ford a/c condenser, Nissan Alloy wheels, BMW mirror, Jeep engine parts and thousands of other GMC parts, Volvo parts, Honda parts and Toyota parts.

Your car must be an extension of yourself so take care of it. No matter how tough its original parts are, you can't expect them to work perfectly right in worst driving situations if you don't maintain them properly. Give your car the most tender love and care it deserves now before winter comes to test its endurance and driving abilities.

Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in Ferndale, California. This 48 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications.

Learn How To Customize Your Car! Discover the secrets to customizing, tricking out, and modifying your ride - guaranteed.

Budget Performance-Car Value

Looking for sports-car kicks, but with the abundance of speed parts and vast modification potential of a Civic? Look no further than Honda's feisty little CRX.

These pocket-size coupes made their debut for 1984. Essentially a two-seat version of the redesigned Civic also introduced that year, the CRX was initially aimed at people who sought frugal commuting (base 1.3-liter versions had EPA fuel economy ratings of 51 mpg city, 67 highway).

But the real news for enthusiasts came the following year when Honda gave the CRX its sporty Si version, which included upgraded suspension, performance-oriented tires, and a hotter 91-hp version of its 1.5-liter engine -- good for sub-nine-second 0-60 mph times in the featherweight car.

***  Automotive Troubleshooting Secrets. Automotive Repair/Maintenance Courseware.  ***

For 1988, an all-new CRX bowed, based again on a new Civic platform. CRX's wheelbase increased, and this second-generation design was somewhat heavier and bigger overall. Fortunately, performance remained in the same league, with the Si's horsepower rating increasing to 105, then 108 the following year. For 1990, CRX got four-wheel-disc brakes.

As sweet of a car as it was, this generation of CRX was destined to be the last -- Honda discontinued the line after 1991, replacing it with the similar but open-roofed Del Sol several years later.

Today, used CRXs are pretty easy to find, but it can sometimes be hard to gauge their true value -- completely stock ones are showing up less and less since these cars became immensely popular with sport-compact fans. The price of a particular CRX can often depend on the various upgrades it's received.

Popular mods include body kits, custom paint, aftermarket wheels, and hotter VTEC engine swaps. As with any modified car, look closely at how well upgrades are executed. In most cases, the work will have been done by the car's owner, whose talent, budget, and experience are unknowns.

Most CRXs now sell for less than $5000, with many of them below $3000. Those sub-$3k CRXs tend to be unmodified. And unmodified CRXs also tend to be unrestored.

That can be an important point, because all CRXs are at least 14 years old -- a lot them are pretty tired. You aren't likely to find a CRX with less than 100,000 miles at this point. Therefore buyers who want a completely stock example to start with will need to carefully consider how much money and patience they're willing to devote to basic mechanical repairs.

***  Find your car at CheapCarSearch.com.  ***

First-generation CRXs are getting kind of scarce, but if you have your heart set on their lighter weight and trimmer dimensions, those cars can be found with a little patience. And one plus is that they tend to show up in the lower end of the price range.

Regardless of what generation or level of modification, Honda's little CRXs can offer big-time fun. They're good performers to start with, there's plenty of aftermarket stuff available, and prices are about as low as performance cars go. Check 'em out.

For more on affordable performance cars, along with drive-test articles on today's hottest sports cars, sport compacts, and muscle cars, go to http://www.autiv.com/" title="http://www.autiv.com/" target="_blank"http://www.autiv.com/

David Bellm is a seasoned test driver and automotive writer. His work has been featured in a wide variety of online and print publications.

Inspect Before You Buy. Ase Certified Automotive Technician teaches you how to properly inspect a used vehicle.

When's the Best Time To Buy A Car?

We'll probably have to agree to disagree, but I don't necessarily think it's at the "end of the month" is the answer to the "when's the best time to buy a car" question any more.

Don't get me wrong, when you're buying a car at retail ( a new or used one), going on the last day of the month when the shop is trying to reach it's quota may be in your best interests.

I remember buying a used Honda Accord once.

I showed up on the last day of the month and the last day of the quarter. It was also just a few hours before closing time.

I didn't realize it until the salesman started sweating and complaining about it as if I was some kind of car buying shark!

I'm not sure I got any kind of super deal, but at least the salesman acted as if I had some kind of leverage and that I was using some kind of "insider knowledge" that dictated the best time to buy a car.

You can see their point though.

Near month end and quarter's end, the number crunchers are hard at work bewailing the lack of sales.

So the sales manager is trying to rouse the sales people into greater productivity so they can all get their bonus.

But I repeat the question. Is waiting till the last day of the month in the last few hours of the day the ABSOLUTE best time to buy a car?

Nowadays I'd say NO.

Why is that?

Because I don't believe in buying a car at RETAIL at all if I can help it!

Call me cheap, but I'd like to buy perfectly serviceable, BUT DIRT CHEAP cars sold at rock bottom... up to 90% off in some cases.

So now my answer to when the best time to buy a car is... "At Auction!"

Whether it's a government auction from the local sheriff who's seized cars from drug dealers, an IRS auction, government vehicles that have 50,000 more miles but are forced to be sold by local policy, bank repossessions, or a car dealer's auction where some auto insider has to go with you, I'm convinced that the best time to buy a car is always at an auto auction!

Click here for nationwide lists of auto auctions...

Here are my reasons...

Let's take an auction from the finance company of a major manufacturer..

1. You've got a nearly new car. The previous driver took the "depreciation hit".

2. You're probably going to get a new warranty for at least 3 months - or save enough to purchase your own "extended warranty" if you are worried the car will fall apart on you.

3. You're going to probably get excellent "new car" financing rates on a used car just to get it off the lot.

Why all the goodies?

The company may have already completely written off the previous transaction as a "complete loss".

If so, they consider whatever they can get from you to be 100% profit!

Let's take a government auction... either from a drug dealer or an IRS seizure.

Why might these opportunities be the best time to buy a car?

Remember the drug enforcement officers and the IRS have NO COST BASIS in the car.

They're in the same position as the finance company that's written off their loss.

Like the finance company, the government agency selling items at auction have 100% to gain.

It's "found money" to them whether they make $1,000 or $10,000. Sure they'd like as much as possible on any given day, but they'll take the money and run.

So the best time to buy a car for these agencies is "any time they have an auction" as long as the car is something you can use or something you can quickly sell at a profit.

This isn't brain surgery.

It's just basic economics.

The answer to the question "when's the best time to buy a car" is simple economics.

1. Do you prefer to buy at RETAIL or WHOLESALE?

In other words, do you want to pay what the average person pays, including years of interest and face the risk of massive depreciation and being "upside down" on your loan (this is when you buy a new car that depreciates so fast when you go to trade it in, the car has no trade in value)?

Or do you want to buy a car at wholesale prices, like a dealer, and save thousands on not only the purchase price, but thousands of dollars in interest payments if you get a loan?

2. If you prefer to buy at retail, then by all means the best time to buy a car is at the end of the month in the closing hours of the day (and preferably the quarter).

3. If you prefer to buy at wholesale instead of retail, then the best time to buy a car is at auction.

Let's say it together...

When's the Best Time To Buy A Car? At Auction!

Chuck Huckaby writes the Work At Home Business Opportunities Blog and 1stHowToWorkAtHome.com and 1st-WorkFromHomeJobs.com - Real Jobs Continuously Updated!. They're 3 of the best Work At Home resources on the web! Visit soon!

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Buying a new car is the dream of many Americans; as a result many are sold each year, that is after financing is obtained in order to pay for them. While you might think going and picking out a car and then receiving on the spot financing is relatively easy it is not always so. Before you head to your local dealership to buy the car of your dreams, consider these tips on automobile financing.

Tip #1 Credit Score Your credit score has everything to do with whether or not you receive automobile financing as well as the interest rates and down payment requirements you will receive. Because of this it is incredibly important for you to know your credit score before you ever head to the dealership. If your credit score is above 600 then you should be able to get financing without too much trouble, however if your score is below 600 you should spend a few months lowering your bills and focusing on increasing your credit score so you can not only qualify for financing, but also for a great interest rate in order to buy that new car.

Tip #2 Compare Rates Different lending institutions from banks, online lenders and the dealership will be able to finance your vehicle. However, each of them is likely to have different interest rates, fee structures, and general requirements for you to meet. As a result, you should evaluate as many financing options as possible in order to find the best deal for you. Because, when it comes down to it, you don't want to pay a single cent more than you have to for your car financing needs.

Tip #3 Get Pre-Approved If there is any way you can get pre-approved for auto financing then you should do so. The reason for this is when you are pre-approved and head to the dealership you will be able to negotiate as if you had cash in hand. This will allow you to qualify for all the rebates and discounts the dealership might be offering and you can negotiate the price of the vehicle down as well.

Following these tips will help you get the best financing available to you considering your personal credit score and financial situation, not to mention the car of your dreams. So follow these tips, save money and finally put that new car in your driveway.

"It is time that we the people stand up and declare we will not be overtaken by the car dealers, but rather we will take the car dealers by storm. Researching the cars is not enough; we need a way to research the dealers themselves." - Dennis James

At Car Dealer Check you can read independent car dealer reviews written by car buyers for car buyers.

You have seen them on all kinds of cars: tail lights that are an obvious aftermarket modification that give even the most nondescript compact sedan an attention getting, stylish look. From Neons to Civics, and from Dakotas to Escalades, and for mostly any model in between, enthusiasts are changing their vehicle's appearance with these cool looking mods. Exactly what are they? Some call them European tail lights while others call them Altezzas, after the name of a popular manufacturer of this type of tail light. No matter what you call them, you can install a pair in less than one hour on your vehicle.

European tail lights are an easy to install modification of your car's tail light assembly. Available as either "clear tail lights" or "red tail lights" your stock tail light assemblies are replaced with a custom fitted unit developed for your particular make/model. In short what you are doing is installing crystal clear or red lenses that go over bullet-style taillight and turn signal lenses. The new lenses, paired with style rings and platings, help to accentuate the light emitting from auto tail lights and turn signals for a distinctive look that is vastly superior to the original design.

Euro tail lights are marketed in an assortment of styles and bezel colors including chrome, carbon fiber, black, etc.; some surfaces are paintable for a customized appearance. What's more, new LED or light emitting diode tail lights are catching on tool. This particular mod features the fitting of new bulbs that light quicker and illuminate brighter than standard tail light bulbs. LED bulbs are filament free and can bear up under grueling road conditions better than any stock bulb. At some point in the future all vehicles will likely come equipped with LEDs, but why wait that long?

Naturally, if you already own certain European models - BMW and Audi are two examples -- then you probably are satisfied with your stock lights as they are what inspired the whole "Euro tail light" craze in the first place.

Best of all, Euro tail lights are street legal and meet stringent Department of Transportation (DOT) and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) regulations. No need to worry about being ticketed by highway patrol either unless you modify the mod illegally!

Manufacturer directions are simple to follow and assembly can be completed in as little as 30 minutes for the pair. So, before you know it you'll be cruising down Rodeo Drive in your little deuce coupe for the whole world to see!

Matt Keegan is an auto aficionado and contributing writer for PitStop Auto Parts, a seller of discount auto accessories including IPCW tail lights and APC tail lights for your car, truck, van, or SUV.

As I've traveled around to car shows over the years, it is obvious that everyone takes pride in their vehicle, weather it be a classic hot rod, a muscle car, un-restored vintage vehicle, or even a new car or motorcycle. Attention is taken by the owners to ensure that there is a blinding shine on the chrome and paint, and every component even the underside is perfect. So given the many hours and often years spent getting to this level of perfection, what are the owners trying to achieve? The answer is to differentiate their vehicle from the others.

So the question for you is "Do You Want Your Vehicle To Stand Out From The Rest? "

I would be surprised is your answer was anything but, YES!

With all of that being said, how can someone make their vehicle stand out? The solution is to turn your vehicle into a piece of movable art.

Think about the car shows that you have been at, and I am sure there was at least one time where there was a row of cars 10-20 deep, all the same year, same make and model and often color and in near perfect condition. Without doing a full concours examination of every bolt, clamp, etc, what makes one car stand out from the others? THE PRESENTATION!

Do You Want To Add Points To Your "Peoples Choice Awards?" I bet the answer is YES!

What makes this happen? THE PRESENTATION!

How a vehicle is displayed and presented is the key to differentiate one from another, and attract more attention to yours. Your vehicle is an extension of your personality, and there are many steps that you take to personalize it. Something that is just off the shelve or out of a catalog is generic, and anyone can just buy that. You go to the experts for advice on how to enhance your vehicles look and performance, so you should also go to the artistic experts on how to display your vehicle.

Palmieri Concepts can help, by transforming your everyday pictures into custom art. They specialize in Collector Cars, Muscle Cars, Hot Rods, Vintage Vehicles and Motorcycles. Palmieri Concepts has taken their years of experience with their own cars and artistic ability to the next step by creating personalized custom art with your vehicle as the focus.

They are not a production type business. Each and every one of their works of art are custom done just for you with the intention that it would be something that they would display.

Palmieri Concepts creates custom art that range in size from 8x10 to posters, custom "Do Not Touch" door magnets, Show Boards that are museum quality pieces, as well as many other custom products. They also have a large inventory of stock pictures that you can add to your theme office or garage.

Visit www.PalmieriConcepts.com for more information on what they can do for you.

Anthony Palmieri founded Palmieri Concepts after 20 years of creating custom art work for his own pleasure and enjoyment and grew out of a love for motor vehicles and was started to share with others what grew out of a hobby. After taking how his own pride and joys (yes this really started with family pictures and not cars) and combining them with creativity, it became obvious that many others would like to showcase their trophies as he has done.

Bouncing down the road one day it occurs to you that things are just not what they should be. The road you are riding on is as smooth as glass, yet your car is jostling up and down like nobody's business. You enter an upcoming curve in the road and quickly learn that the control you had over your car was lost just moments before. Suddenly, the vehicle careens off the road, goes down through a ditch and up an embankment before coming to rest against a fence adjacent to Tony's garage. You are in luck: you aren't dead and your car is at Tony's, who happens to be your favorite mechanic.

Yes this story is ridiculous, exceedingly so. All joking aside, your shock absorbers [or struts in the case of some cars] plays a vital part in your vehicle's suspension system. When certain signs of wear and tear become apparent, you must replace your shocks or otherwise you can put yourself in danger and/or damage your car.

A shock absorber works by damping the compression and extension of the vehicle's suspension springs to prevent ongoing movement. Shocks work to diminish road impact, prevent excessive bounce back, reduce sway, and improve general road handling. When your shocks are functioning properly your vehicle grips to the road whether you are braking, negotiating a curve in the road, driving on uneven roads, or experiencing powerful side winds. When worn out, shocks can play a part in you losing control of your car putting you and everyone else in harm's way.

How often should you replace your shocks? One manufacturer suggests no less than once every 50,000 miles, but that depends on whether you frequently drive on coarse roads [in this case it will need to occur sooner] or it could even be much later if you do mostly local driving, the roads are well maintained, etc.

There is a simple test you can perform on your car to establish whether your shocks need replacing. It isn't absolute, therefore you may want to take your vehicle to a garage to make certain:

Take hold of a corner of your vehicle's bumper.

Press down on the bumper with all of your strength and then let go.

Your shocks are probably okay if the bumper drops down and returns in place without rebounding again. Slight movement is okay, but if it continually moves, then that particular shock is no longer effective. Duplicate the test on the remaining three corners of your vehicle.

Other telltale signs of shock wear can be observed through leakage [although a leak is not always indicative of wear] and by observing tire wear patterns. Finally, if you are simply experiencing motion sickness every time you go for a ride, then that can be the best indicator that your shocks or struts need replacing. No kidding here!

Matt Keegan is an auto enthusiast and contributing writer for PitStop Auto Parts, a seller of discount shocks and suspension components including Monroe shocks and Rancho shocks for your motor vehicle.

The venerable Buick Park Avenue is no more, having been replaced by the all new Buick Lucerne, a down market version of the Cadillac DTS. With a 275-hp Northstar V8 engine, the Lucerne becomes the first Buick car in nearly ten years to arrive equipped with a V8. The entire Buick line up is in the process of being overhauled, so let's take a look at this make's newest flagship and see how it plays a part in GM's overall strategy.

If you are a fan of the Buick brand you have witnessed your fair share of changes over the past five years. Gone are the Park Avenue, LeSabre, Century, and Regal, and in its place are the Rendezvous, the Rainier, LaCrosse, Terrazza, and the Lucerne. All the changes are the result of General Motors' broad realignment strategy in the wake of retiring the Oldsmobile brand, lifting Saturn into the fold, and setting strategy to compete against the nonstop onslaught of foreign brands including Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infiniti.

One look at the Buick and you will notice a strong resemblance to the Cadillac DTS. The Buick's oval grille sets it apart from the Cadillac's firm nose, but a cursory examination of the body lines tells you that these cars are in fact twins. In the past, Buicks were essentially "stripped down" versions of Cadillacs, while Oldsmobile and Pontiac were more luxurious or sportier versions of Chevrolet models. Clearly, GM is repositioning Buick to have a more distinct "near luxury" look without stepping on Cadillac's toes, while giving the Buick division a much needed replacement for the aging Park Avenue.

For the car shopper, the Lucerne is value priced, arriving at in showrooms at just under 27K. With a standard 3.8 V6, the automaker can claim decent fuel mileage of 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. In these days of hyped up gas prices, favorable fuel economy is a keen marketing tool, but expect many buyers to opt for the ultra powerful Northstar V8 instead. Why? Because, if they want to purchase a Buick, they likely will want the power to go along with the luxury. It remains to be seen how well the V6 operates in a car that is 203 inches long and weighing in at nearly two tons.

Standard equipment for the Lucerne includes the following: power windows, door locks, and mirrors; side curtain air bags for the front seat; theft deterrent system; OnStar; keyless entry; and more.

The optional equipment list is expansive and can easily drive the starting price of the top of the line CSX to over 35K. For that price you receive heated power seats with lumbar support; a memory package that adjusts the seats, mirrors, radio, and climate control to each driver's specifications; sport leather steering wheel with built in controls; and more.

A fully loaded Lucerne is still several thousand dollars less than the DTS, making the Lucerne a value leader in the luxury car category. Still, Buick has its work cut out for it as competition from foreign brands including Acura, BMW, and Lexus continue to hammer away at GM's "near luxury" division. Fortunately, quality levels for all Buicks remain very high so combining that level of success with a strong price may help the Lucerne compete admirably.

Copyright 2005 -- Matt Keegan is a contributing writer for the Auto Parts Warehouse, a wholesaler of fine Buick parts and accessories.

Do you love your car just the way it is, or are you looking to fix 'er up the way you really want it to be? If you're the creative type who wants to do things your way, why not take advantage of the great car body kits that are available from reputable parts dealers? You can stop in at the local neighborhood store to check out and select the parts that will bring your vehicle up to speed, so to speak. Or you can virtually browse online websites to find the parts you want to make your car everything you need.

A well-stocked auto supply kit knows your car better than you do. The associates can give you a quick rundown on what you can do to make your car better, faster, and more efficient in no time flat. They can give you detailed instructions and precise parts for any make, model, and year of vehicle, truck, or SUV you have in mind. For example, check out the wing spoiler and ground spoiler kits for your Mercury Cougar. Easy to install with solid, durable materials, you will love the way your car cruises after adding features like these.

Make sure you have the know-how to do the job right. If you don't, look around for someone who can do it for you at a fair rate. While a dealership or auto garage can put in the labor to add your new options, they could charge steep rates, so you may want to look elsewhere for help. Follow instructions carefully, and contact the parts dealer if you come up short a bolt or two. While you may feel that the part is secure minus the extra hardware, it isn't worth having it come loose and scrape the body finish or even detach because you don't feel like tracking the extra parts.

Compare prices, as they can vary widely from one dealership to another. Become familiar with some of the construction techniques and materials used to create the parts you want to add to your car. Sometimes you can find basically the same feature under a different name for a much lower cost. Do your homework and take some time to shop area stores as well as online websites. Remember, there's one born every day, so don't become a statistical scam victim by purchasing parts that won't hold up or may even be "hot."

It may be a good idea to check out the latest product reviews on the various car product websites online. You can visit chat rooms or discussions boards, and also read the detailed reviews that are often found on the Web. Posted by those in the know, you can learn more in ten minutes of reading sometimes than you can from talking with a parts dealer associate.

After installing your new body parts, keep them well maintained so that they last and help your vehicle become everything you want it to be.

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