Windshield Repair, a More Practical Solution than Windshield Replacement

Automobiles in today's modern world are equipped with many more safety features than ever before in history. Considering the high and ever-increasing number of traffic accidents that occur on the busy streets and highways of the United States, it is vitally important that vehicles have built-in mechanisms that make surviving an accident more likely. Safety features like air bags, seat belts, third brake lights, and safety glass used in windshields are essential for modern drivers and their passengers. Fortunately more and more of these safety features are being made standard equipment in new automobiles every year.

But what happens when these safety features are threatened -- perhaps damage to the windshield for example? Well, there are numerous different options, ranging from impractical and inconvenient to cost-effective and hassle-free. If your windshield gets damaged, you could either:


1) Learn to live with it (until you get pulled over for driving an unsafe vehicle with impaired visibility)

2) Get a whole new car (not exactly the most cost effective way to go)

3) Replace the windshield (Much more reasonable cost but must be done absolutely right)

4) Repair the windshield (If the damage is minor enough, a very effective and efficient way to go)


No one should have to endure a damaged windshield. Especially in today's world, with so many different replacement and repair options available. As for getting a new car, well, you might if you were planning to anyway, but what about the value of the car you'd be selling or trading in -- it now has a damaged windshield after all! And what happens when your next car's windshield gets damaged -- you won't always be able to replace a car just for a simple windshield crack. You could replace the windshield, but that may cost more than you really need to spend, depending on the extent of the damage. Or -- you could simply get the windshield repaired.

A simple windshield repair is a great way to fix the damage to the glass while preserving the safety features of the vehicle. Windshield repair is performed without destroying the factory's safety seal of windshield to vehicle. This seal holds the windshield in place during collisions and ensures that the airbag will deploy properly. Windshield repair will also halt the spread of damage; restore structural integrity to damaged glass; improve clarity by 80% or more in damaged area; extend the glass's useful life; cost less than automotive glass replacement, and will enable the vehicle to pass safety inspection.

In a nutshell, windshield repair means injecting a specially formulated resin into the area of damaged auto glass. The resin is then cured and polished, which restores the structural strength and clarity to the glass. Then you have a repaired windshield with a barely noticeable scar (no larger than the size of a sharpened pencil point).

Now, doesn't that make a lot more sense than replacing the whole thing?

Not all windshields can be repaired. The damaged area should be relatively small (no longer than a dollar bill). A trained technician should be able to tell you if windshield repair is possible for you. You never know unless you ask!

Top 5 Tips For Buying A Used Car

While you can get a great bargain by purchasing a second hand car you can also get nothing more than an old banger if you don't take care. When it comes to purchasing a second hand car from a private dealer there are different rules than if you bought from an established dealer. One of the biggest differences are your consumer rights - or lack of them.

While there are many honest and trustworthy people out there selling used cars there are also some "dodgy" characters and of course sometimes it is hard to tell the difference. One of the best tips when buying a car from a private dealer is to pay a small fee to have a car data check carried out. This will check such things as the previous owner of the car, mileage data associated with the vehicle and if there are any problems relating to finance or insurance.

When going to look at a second hand car sold by a private buyer you should consider taking someone with you who knows about cars. If you don't have someone who knows enough about cars and what to look for when buying second hand then it could save you money and heartache in the long run if you were to pay a mechanic to go and look over the car with you before committing yourself to purchasing it.

When buying privately make sure that you learn as much as you can about the make and model of the particular car that you are going to look over. Do an online search through used cars for the model and make sure that you have a very good idea of what that particular make and model is selling for.

When buying privately always make sure that you go and look over the car in daylight. If the seller is wary of letting you do this then it is very likely that they have something to hide. The seller should be able to answer all your questions willingly about the history of the car. If they tell you they don't know or are unsure because they are selling the car for a friend or relative then you should stay clear and look elsewhere. They should also be able to provide you with all the necessary documentation relating to the cars history.

If you are buying from a dealer then be aware of all the added extras which they could try to entice you with and ask yourself if you really need them. Also be careful when it comes to taking any payment protection insurance associated with any car finance through them as this can boost the price up drastically of the car.

The Reasons Behind Exporting Cars to Dubai from the US

A huge percentage of the world's population has a dream of visiting the United States. The perception is that the USA is the land of opportunities, and everything that is produced or exported from the USA is of a superior quality. This obviously applies to cars. But, the question that arises, is the perception enough to justify the exponential increase in cars being exported to Dubai (small Middle Eastern sheikhdom), or is there supporting factors.

In a questionnaire collected from Dubai citizens studying at US based universities, the initial conclusion is that overall mechanical labor significantly costs less in Dubai when compared the US. This ultimately results in less cost to fixing mechanical problems. This confuses the puzzle, but with more in-depth interviews, the regular mechanic shops that charge the average labor rate lake quality. On the contradictory, the quality of dealership mechanical works matches its apposing at the US, however those dealership charges up to two times more of it's apposing at the US. Therefore, cars are more often maintained, and repaired at low quality shops; this strengthens the perception that two cars with identical miles, one driven on American roads, and other driven on Dubai Roads, the one driven in America would be of a much better quality.

However, this was not enough to convene me, and I researched for more justifications for the exponential increase. The research lead to that Dubai is one of the fastest-growing, flashiest and most multi-ethnic cities in the world. It is a city that welcomes anyone whose intention is to make money. Dubai Statistics Department announced that 2006 witnessed a sharp increase in the population, and an energetic development in every sector. About 292,000 become Dubai residents in 2006, increasing the population by 21 percent.

Furthermore, the department also revealed that about 212 thousands vehicles were registered for the first time in the same year. The department considered this an alarming number, which may result in a shift from the equilibrium in the car market. This is where deliberately and in deliberately, US based car dealers got on track to shipping cars towards Dubai. The shipments were generated by requests from Dubai local dealers. Of course, the fact that our dollar is weaker than the Euro, played to our advantage, allowing for cars that are shipped from the US to be more worth less in local Dubai currency.

To conclude, the economic boom that was initiated in 2000, in 2005 started to spread the boom to other parts of the Middle East. Currently it is noticed that Doha and Abu Dhabi are the cities benefiting from the wave of investment and development. It is important for US car dealers to capture on this growth supported by the world's globalization, and the efficiency of supply chain management, as the economic boom will at least last until the end of the current presidency period. The US economic policy will not change much until the next President has been elected to the White House. It is likely that we are witnessing a generational change in global wealth pattern, and that could provide evidence extremely durable for the Arabian gulf countries of the Middle East.

The Baby And The Breastfeeding - How A Car Dealership Tried To Milk Us Dry

Everybody's got a car-buying story. This one tried to rob me here. This one tried to pull the wool over my eyes. This one really dropped the ball and I stole a new car right from under them.

Yeah right.

But here's one that I'll be you've never heard before...

A few years back, my wife and I had our second child and decided it was time to trade in the car for a roomier, more practical SUV. A couple of years of broken backs lugging car seats in and out of a Grand Am will do that to you.

So we did our research, drove a few vehicles, and made our decision. Luckily for us (or so we thought) it was the end of a calendar, year, which we had read was a primo time to get a great deal.

So we set out on New Year's Eve day to try and dicker our way into a new SUV. And as fate would have it, there was an ice storm the previous evening.

End of the year. Holiday weekend. Ice storm. Everything was falling into our favor. These guys should be BEGGING us to buy a vehicle.

So we walked confidently into the near-empty dealership, 1-month old daughter in tow, to try and buy a new SUV. I had done so much research that I knew almost to the penny what my car was worth, what they had paid for their SUV, and how much we wanted to pay.

Now, before I go any further, I want to state for the record that my offer was fair and reasonable. Car dealers are in the business to make money, and I had no problem with that.

The problem was with their first offer. To say it was ridiculous was...well, ridiculous. They tried to pull the old "your old car has a lot of problems" schtick after some flunky drove it exactly 77 feet across the lot.

So we balked. And they promptly moved on to pressure tactic two--the Sweat Out.

Back and forth this sales girl went from manager to our cubicle and back. We were hammered by closers. Hammered by managers. And every time they left to "see what they could do" we waited another 20-30 minutes.

Which brings me to the interesting part...

After about 3 hours of this baloney and our frustrations rising to a peak level, my wife leans over to me and whispers, "If I don't feed the baby soon, I'm going to literally burst all over this desk."

That was all the cue I needed. We bundled up and headed towards the door. And the most amazing part is, only one of those salespeople actually made a move--a tiny one--to stop us.

You'd think after all this time--especially in an empty dealership on the last day of the year after an ice storm--they'd be willing to do anything to sell us a vehicle. But they didn't. We just walked out.

Afterwards, we received no follow up call, no mailing, nothing. Amazing. It was like we were never there.

Luckily, my wife did not "bust" (no pun intended) and our little Suzanne got the lunch of a lifetime. But the moral of the story is this...

Regardless of all the how-to-buy-a-car stuff you read, be prepared for anything. You never know what's going to happen once you walk into the lion's den. These guys read all the same stuff online that you do...and are slyly trying to change tactics.

And above all, remember these two lessons:

Lesson One: Don't believe anything they say about your trade-in, especially when you know it's not true. To throw it in their face even further, have a trusted mechanic look over your trade and put everything in writing. That'll bring a few blushing cheeks to the party.

Lesson Two: If they try and sweat you out, just get up and go. We wasted 3 hours (and darn near had a major explosion) at this haven for crooks and walked away with nothing to show for it. That was almost 7 years and 3 vehicles ago, and needless to say, they still haven't received a cent of my money. So don't let them sweat you out. No vehicle is worth it.

And finally, bringing a breastfeeding wife and a new baby along is a great negotiating tool. It gave us a great excuse to bail, and it may work in your favor as well--especially if the baby is wailing and the mother is about ready to do her best Mt. St. Helens impersonation.

Windshield Repair - Is Your Car Windshield as Safe as you Think?

Do you really know how safe your windshield is? If you have a new car, it was made with the safest windshield available. But once an auto glass shop replaces the original windshield in the aftermarket, all bets are off. Unfortunately, owners of windshields that need to be replaced are rarely given much choice with regards to quality.

Vehicle owners usually do not have much of any choice when their windshields are damaged. This is true, despite lip service paid to safety and consumer protection laws that provide freedom of choice. Insurance claims are typically referred to glass networks. Most networks own their own glass shops and have a financial interest in performing the work themselves. As there are no State or Federal laws that govern the safety or quality of windshields that are replaced on cars once they are on the road (just new vehicles), it's a crapshoot whether the work performed meets safety standards.

Ascertaining the quality of the glass and security of the installation is a problem for most motorists who are not experts in glass repair. Even though all insurance companies are contractually obligated to policyholders to restore their vehicles to pre-damaged condition, most consumers would seldom know if any substandard materials or procedures were used on their vehicle.

Because a properly functioning windshield can help save lives in an accident, the consumer is well advised to keep it in tip top condition. It is as important to repair windshield glass that is even slightly damaged: stars, scratches, small cracks, and holes. Windshield repair in a timely manner will not only eliminate unsightly flaws, preventing further spread, but it will also enable you to keep the factory installed windshield, which safer, more secure, and leak-proof. It is always better to keep the original windshield when possible.

Sadly, most glass networks choose to replace windshields rather than refer drivers to windshield repair shops like NOVUS. That is because there is not much profit in glass repair for those huge networks. But if the consumer insists on fast, convenient, and inexpensive repair, the insurance company will have to respond to those demands. Most insurance companies these days not only cover the cost of the windshield repairs, they also waive applicable deductibles.

NOVUS technicians are required to regularly undergo advanced windshield repair workshops to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques, tools and processes in the industry. These skilled repair staff perform 30-minute windshield repairs at the consumer's home or workplace. Most European auto manufacturers prefer NOVUS.

NOVUS is responsible for the repair of cracks, holes and scratches in over 23 million car and truck windshields each year for not only individual motorists, but government agencies, fleets, and corporations. The windshield repair/replacement company continues to grow its network of franchisees throughout the United States, Latin America, and around the world. The franchise opportunity offers easy entry, low cost, comprehensive factory training, proprietary products and techniques, and extensive franchisee support. There are more than 2,600 NOVUS franchisees and dealers in operation globally.

Women Driving - To Heel or Not to Heel

How many times has your wife, mother, or sister worried more about her heels while driving than the car's parts, the GMC brake dust shield, for instance?

Well now it looks like someone has finally come up with a solution to their worries.

A new footwear design concept that aims to "make women safer and more comfortable behind the wheel, without compromising on their style" has been recently launched by Sheilas' Wheels this week. Sheila's Wheels, an insurance brand for women, has developed the 'Sheila Driving Heel' which gives women the best of both worlds - a safe, flat driving shoe and a glamorous pair of heels in one - all interchangeable at a push of a button.

According to new research from Sheilas' Wheels, more than 11.5 million women drivers in the UK are putting themselves and other drivers at risk by wearing the wrong footwear when behind the wheel. Around a sixth (15%) of female motorists in Yorkshire admit that they have had a car accident or a 'near-miss' because of their shoes slipping off or getting stuck between, or under, the foot pedals while driving.

The report highlighted that 75% of women in Yorkshire called for better guidelines to advise them on the correct form of footwear to wear when driving. A lack of understanding is clearly evident as almost three fifths (58%) of female motorists in Yorkshire believed that sports trainers were the safest shoes to drive in - even though their thick soles and chunky design limit both movement between, and contact with, the pedals.

According to the company's 'Safe Shoes' report a massive 78% of female drivers in Yorkshire wear inappropriate footwear when in control of a car - choosing style over safety. Two fifths (39%) of all female drivers in the area also confess to wearing flip-flops, while 19% claim that they have worn no shoes at all when driving, which experts say can be extremely hazardous and is currently illegal in some parts of the UK.

Apparently safety goes second to style to some of those surveyed as over a third (34%) of women drivers in Yorkshire said they chose what shoes to wear when getting ready in the morning based on what went best with their outfit rather than being the safest for driving in.

Only around one in six (14%) female drivers in Yorkshire keep a spare pair of 'driving shoes' in the car to change into, while 19% admit they can't be bothered to change their shoes when behind the wheel even if they know they are not the safest for driving.

The Safe Shoes report also reveals that although two thirds of women (66%) wear heels when behind the wheel, they cited a number of disadvantages - all of which are eliminated by the 'Sheila Driving Heel' design:

- It damages or scuffs the back of the heel (52%) - with the 'Sheila Driving Heel' design, the heel tucks up into the shoe and out of harms way


- Heels can sometimes get caught under the pedal when driving (49%)


- the flat shoe option removes this potentially dangerous problem


- Wearing heels causes an uncomfortable driving position (43%) - the flat shoe option lessens pressure on the knee and lower back, improving comfort behind the wheel


- Heels don't provide enough grip (31%) - the 'Sheila Driving Heel' shoe has a discrete yet effective tread on the sole, to aid grip on the pedals


- It wears out the driving mat (17%) - the 'Sheila Driving Heel' shoe has a curved back to aid pivoting of the ankle and remove the possibility of damage.

VW Temperature Control

When VW released it's very first car, the easily recognizable VW Beetle or the Type 1 in 1938, few would've foreseen the design, much less cars produced and released at that time, to survive up until the present. Even with VW releasing a retro car based on the Type 1, the cult following and continued production (up until 2003) is evidence not only on the car's iconic status, but also reference to VW's engineering prowess.

VW has then proceeded to release other platforms with varying degrees of success, yet the reputation built upon by VW's first endeavor seems to follow the company's current forays to the ever-expanding automotive market. Outside of the oft brandished German ingenuity, VW parts are a product of properly configured engine and support applications that, with proper maintenance, allow for peak performance and durability of the vehicle. From filtration of air and oil as well as regulation of the temperature all play an important role in maintaining control of the mechanical chaos that is the internal combustion engine.

While most VW vehicles have forgone the the original air-cooled engines of the Type 1, the more current models have all opted to avail of a fluid-cooling system. Using coolants rather than air, emissions and engine noise can be kept within minimal levels. Regulation of coolant flow to react to the varying degrees of heat the engine undergoes is crucial in keeping the engine from under-performing due to the lack of heat or overheating. Cooling systems are always fitted with a VW thermostat, a small device that helps to keep the heat of the engine at optimal levels.

V chamber. The wax melts as the engine gets hotter, expanding throughout the chamber. Inside the containment of the wax pellet is a provision attached to a rod which opens the valves controlling coolant flow, which opens once the engines goes above the operating temperature i.e when the melted wax has melted and pushed the rod to a certain point. Since the composition of the wax determines the operating temperature, which in this case, is pretty much fixed, different type of wax is used for different driving applications. Most modern engines designed for lower emissions are typically fitted with VW thermostats that have a wax that has a higher operational temperature compared to older models. Just as much, sports cars have different wax pellets from MPV's or compact cars.

Installing the wrong VW thermostat or one that develops a malfunction can prove not only problematic but expensive due to the other areas that will be affected by engines with non-optimal temperatures. The least of the problems is poor fuel economy, but the worst case scenario would be overheating, which can severely damage other important parts, like warping the piston rings, overhead gaskets and kill the engine outright. It is strongly advised that maintenance of the thermostat, as well the entire cooling system is done routinely to avoid further implications and cause a substantial amount of cash in repairs.

How Your Car or Truck Can Run On Water

NO WAY... IMPOSSIBLE... CRAZY... UNBELIEVABLE...

This were the words that kept coming out of my mouth when I first learnt about the possibility of powering my car with water. It just sounded too good to be true. And like you know about what is too good to be true, I thought it had to be too good to be true.

But I didn't have to doubt for too long because right there and then it was proved to be true. Not only is it possible to power my car on water, but the BEST news was that I could do it myself!

This isn't about buying a special and incredibly expensive car that was specifically made to be powered by water.

This isn't about buying some expensive device to attach to your car to reduce the consumption of gas.

Instead, this is a simple technology that you can use at home yourself to power your car!

How does it work?

Simple.

It's the simple putting together of home-made devices that use a little electricity out of your car's battery to separate water into a gas called HHO (2 Hydrogen + 1 Oxygen). HHO, also known as Brown's Gas or Hydroxy, burns beautifully and by so doing provides TONS of energy.

And the beauty is that this pound for pound HHO gas is even much more potent than gasoline. In fact 3 times more potent than gasoline.

The fact that you build this together in your home makes it very interesting. To get started, simply arm yourself with the necessary information on how to do this and how it works. And with the Internet you can get free information by searching.

Finally, a word of caution however- don't expect to run your car on 100% water because that's not only very expensive but completely unpredictable. You will find such information, but I don't recommend it.

But if you desire an alternative that works to reduce your gas consumption USING WATER, it exists and it works!

The Best Buying Tips for used car

Many smart consumers contend that buying used cars is just the same as buying new ones if the buyer knows how to buy used cars.

So, to help those who wish to buy a car but cannot afford a new car, here are some of the best tips that can be implemented when buying a used car.

1. Research

It is extremely important for an individual to conduct some research when buying used cars. In this way, the buyer will be able to know the ideal make and model to buy, the kind of performance to seeks, and the prices in the market.

Moreover, the risk of buying used cars is lessened if the buyer knows the important details.

2. Check the cars history

The car's history will definitely provide the buyer some solid information regarding the performances, repairs, and problems of the car. So if you CAN discover some history it would be to your advantage. In this way, the buyer will be able to compare and differentiate one car from the other. There are instances wherein used cars are being sold because of some past accidents or negative experiences. Buyers might consider more if the car he or she is about to buy has a history like this one.

3. Check the safety features

What more can you expect with a used car but it does not necessarily mean that the buyer will neglect the availability of safety features in the car.

By all means, an ideal car must possess safety features, whether it is old or new. According to some reports, almost 80% of the accidents are heightened because safety features are not available in the car.

4. Buyers should be wary about the documents that are included when buying used cars.

Buyers should be sure that the car is not stolen, there are no liens on the vehicle, and that the one who signed on the "Bill of Sale" is the true vendor and the possessor of the property.

5. Before buying a used car, it is best to meticulously inspect the overall condition of the car first. Buyers should be wary of any rust or damage; the tires should be checked, etc.

Indeed, buying a used car can be very tedious. Nevertheless, it will give the buyer some satisfaction and assurance that what he or she has bought is a good buy.

Unique Jeepney Experience

Public transportation on land around the world comes in various types. There's the bus, the taxicab and the lightrail transit. But nothing beats the jeepney, considered the most convenient public transportation in the world. And perhaps nothing is more unique than the Philippine jeepney which plies the major cities in the Philippines. This transportation is proof of the Filipinos' creativity and ability to improvise technology into more useful forms.

The first PUJs (public utility jeepneys) were actually made from US military jeeps. Their origin dates back to the post-war era after the Americans left the country leaving behind some of their jeeps. Some of those jeeps were sold while the others were given to Filipinos. Being the innovative and creative people that they are, the Filipinos then remodeled the jeeps to accommodate several people. Metal roofs were added and the jeepneys were adorned with colorful ornaments and painted with bright colors. Since then, the jeepney has become a popular and cheaper means of public transportation and a symbol of Philippine culture.

Sarao Motors and Francisco Motors are the most famous manufacturers of these PUJs. Both companies made the jeepneys individually and buyers ordered the vehicles on contractual basis with their own design specifications. Each jeepney is uniquely built based on the artistic concept of the designer assigned to such vehicle. In fact, the time spent on designing and decorating the PUJ takes more time compared to the building process itself. The entire body, made from galvanized iron sheets and stainless steel, is built by hand using the welding process. Later on, Ford Fieras were also used to make the PUJs.

What makes these Philippine jeepneys attractive are the decorations that adorn its exterior and interior. The various ornaments used include moving horse figurines, flags, colorful and blinking lights, mirrors, paintings and stickers with various sayings ranging from the funny to the serious ones. Stereos that play loud music are another attraction in the PUJs which many young passengers go for. Other improvisations have also been made such as buttons on the interior's walls which passengers have to push to make the driver stop the jeepney. Sometimes, the pushing of the button will coincide with the blinking of a light or a sound that will alert the driver. If not a push button, a string to be pulled is another way of making the PUJ stop once reaching your destination.

The jeepneys nowadays have one fixed route passing from the suburbs to the central business district. These routes are painted along the sides of the jeepney. These PUJs are normally full in the early morning when professionals and students are off to their offices and schools as well as in the late afternoons when most people are home-bound. A single jeepney accommodates 16 passengers and fares are based on the distance from where a passenger gets in and where he or she gets off. Payment of the fares is done on an honesty basis as the driver can't keep track of all the passengers that he has. Although sometimes, he may bring along a companion to take charge of collecting the fares.

Since its invention, countless jeepneys have been made and the government has regulated the number of these PUJs for the various routes available. Drivers are required to have specialized licenses, must stick to their routes and charge fixed fares. Areas have also been designated for loading and unloading of passengers to ensure a smooth flow of traffic unlike before when jeepney drivers will just pick up a passenger anywhere along their way.

Buying a Car Online - Seven Tips

Okay, so you've decided it's time for a new set of wheels. The old crocker has kicked the bucket and it's time to move on up! Buying a car online can be a wonderful opportunity to get an awesome deal, that's right, you need not fall victim to the seedy salesman with his automotive hell trap that bit your mate in the ass like a rabid dog…

Buying online can put you in the driver's seat of the deal! But let's get a few things straight with these helpful tips before you dive in and splurge on the dream ride.

Tip 1

Do you know what you are looking for? Make sure that you research the car you've been dreaming of. Take a moment to ask yourself what your needs are, how many people will you be driving around, what can you afford –including running costs. Don't let insurance and licensing costs pop up as ghosts in the night at a later stage. Know your enemy and you will conquer!

Tip 2

So you've locked onto your target model and you're ready for the next step. Enter the cyber showroom of your chosen manufacturer and check out the model's details. Familiarise yourself with the specifications and price. Now go read reviews, online, in car magazines, in newspapers… anywhere and everywhere you can. What's good about your chosen model, and what's not so good? Reconnaissance missions set you up for success.

Tip 3

You still want it? You're probably onto a keeper, so now go get some quotes. Shopping around for a deal is vital if you don't want to be taken for a fool. Check out your chosen model on the websites of a couple of dealers and see what they've got on offer. How do the prices sit with you after your extensive research? Looking good?

Tip 4

Now, time to take out the calculator. How much is this baby going to cost you in total? Insurance, taxes, tires, fuel, licence, services, etc. Add it up. Can you stomach it? Unless you have a nice chunk of cash in your pocket you may need to opt for car financing, and if so you need to see what the best plan for repayments is. You can check out your credit score online if you are unsure about your standing.

Tip 5

Get out a bright light and a pair of pliers. Interrogate the dealer. The most important info you need is about warranties, delivery costs, insurance details, whether the tank will be filled, are there any discount opportunities, maybe some free accessories and do they supply an onsite inspection report?

Tip 6

Insurance can be bought from the dealer or from an independent insurance company. Go ahead and compare the deals offered by insurance companies. You want the best for the lowest price, so it will take some comparative analysis to find the optimum insurance for your new car.

Tip 7

Before you actually buy the car, be sure to read the agreement. If you have questions then ask. Use the customer service provided. Be assertive and sure of each step. When you are happy with everything you can go ahead with the purchase. Soon you will be tearing up the tarmac in your shiny new ride…

Coming Soon - Peugeot 207 SW

It was only a year ago that Peugeot, the producer of Peugeot oxygen sensor introduced the 207 in France and into the main European markets. It also became the fourth entry of Peugeot in the European small car market segment, along with the 107, the 1007, and the 206. And today the introduction of the 207 SW with its outdoor charm rounds up the 207 range.

An expanding range
The 207 SW which will be available in July is expected to broaden further the 207 range that has earlier launched a hatchback version. And like the 207 CC, the 207 RC together with the three and five door hatchbacks earlier introduced will also help in strengthening the 207 range.

The 207 SW is also seen to follow the footsteps of the 206 SW which has become the best selling estate car in the French and European B2 segment starting from its introduction in 2003. The 207 SW compared to the 206 SW has benefited immensely from the generation leap since it will be able to expand its target customer base with a number of new features.

Peugeot's sale forecast for the 207 SW:
Peugeot is expecting that the first full year of 2008, the 207 SW would at least contribute 18 percent or 98,000 units of the total sales of the 207 models. The breakdown of sales will be—petrol to contribute 44 percent and diesel to put in 56 percent.

The 207 SW is to be produce exclusively at the POISSY manufacturing site, which has the capacity to produce 460 units a day. The production of the 206 SW was ended in January 2006.

Commercial launches
The 207 SW will be simultaneously introduced in July 5, 2007 in France, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, and Portugal but will be made available in July 12 in Germany. For the other European markets the vehicle will be launch in September.

The advantage of the 207 SW is that it will be entering a market segment that is continuously growing, increasing from 26.2 percent of the total European market to 30.5 percent. The model mix has also changed significantly during this time. The hatchback models has decreased from 95 percent of the B2 segment in 2000 to 82.4 percent in 2006 on the other hand the people carrier models have increased from 1.8 percent to 12 percent, cabriolets have also rose from 0.1 percent to 2.8 percent while estates remained steady at 3 percent with only a slight increase to 3.6 percent last 2004.

207 SW a practical and versatile option
The 207 SW is growing at an increasing rate which is good since it indicates high desirability of the range. After the three and five door hatchback and the coupe cabriolet, Peugeot will now be introducing the SW. Each of the models at the range acts as a silhouette possessing the strength of the 207 design but still maintaining their own individual personality. The SW will round up the 207 range especially with the appearance of the hatchback.

The new 207 a blend of one and both at the same time
The new 207 is easily recognized through its strong lines and dynamic character and yet benefiting from the exactness of its design and the visible quality of the car. The SW, according to Peugeot stands for express space, light, and well-being. And thanks to the glass panoramic roof, practicality, and modularity which are all contained within a well balanced, stylish design.

The 207 aims to attract a customer base that leads a "full and busy life" and who appreciates the space and versatility offered by the new 207 compact vehicle---customers ranging from young families to those in active retirement who enjoys the outdoor and social interaction.

What to expect from a 207?
Here is the list of features that the 207 offers:

*The new 207 SW has an overall length of 4.156 m, i.e. 119 mm longer than the hatchback (in the rear overhang), providing additional interior space.

*The new 207 possess a design that is oozing with personality. Its bold styling at the front which it shared with the hatchback flows backwards to create an one-of-a-kind design, that is further enhanced by the "brightness" provided by the panoramic glass roof, the oblong design of the side windows, the inverted rear quarter panels and the huge ruby-like rear lights on which provide the illusion of the rear tailgate glass resting on them.

*In some versions of the 207 SW are roof bars that further emphasize the originality of the design.

*The interior is brightened by the enormous panoramic glass roof that allows a more stunning view of the surrounding environment. An electrically operated sun blind controls the brightness.

*The new 207 SW provide an easy to access luggage area with a capacity of 337 dm3 VDA (or 428 litres) is 67 dm3 more (or 188 litres) than the 207 hatchback.

*The 207 SW also contain some surprises like for instance its "magical" rear modularity, which means that the user can adapt easily the space to suit their circumstances. Rear seats are easy to fold down since it is operated automatically. The folded seat forms a totally flat surface that allows an additional room for the luggage.

Practical features that will also be appreciated, such as:

*The opening rear tailgate glass.


*A three-section parcel shelf allowing access to the contents of the boot – from the rear seats, the tailgate glass or, more traditionally, the rear tailgate itself.


*More space in the back (both headroom and leg room) enabling greater use of the rear seats. The raised height of the rear seats also creates an "amphitheatre" effect, improving the occupants' forward vision.

Nissan Altima - Two Doors, No Waiting

The Altima has been one of the Nissan Motor Co.'s hot selling cars since its introduction in 2001. The second generation, introduced in 2006, toughened the sedan's popularity. To broaden its overall appeal, Nissan introduced a hybrid version of the car in January. And now the much-awaited coupe has arrived.

Compared to other coupes, the Altima is not just a two-door version of the sedan. Nissan engineers has shortened the wheelbase by 101 mm, cut the overall length by 185 mm and lowered the height by 66 mm. The modifications gave the coupe a handsome look that could turn heads.

How distinct is the coupe from the sedan? Well, the only sheet metal shared between two- and four-door Altimas is the hood. The Coupe has been endowed with a pair of idiosyncratic bucket seats with striking side bolsters for extra lateral support. In the back, a 60/40 split rear bench extends the cargo space. The feature is ideal for a weekend of skiing or to hold few odds and sods from the store. Also, a more conventional parking-brake hand lever has also been added to the Coupe, substituting the sedan's foot-operated control.

The other big difference between the models is power. The base car is equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder that generates 175 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. This is more than enough to be amusing when mated to the six-speed manual box. A significant part for the spirited drive is attributed to the transmission's close ratios and a light, progressive clutch that puts the bite point in the precise place. It makes rowing the gears an enjoyable experience notwithstanding the twisty road surface.

In terms of performance and agility, the new Coupe also has plenty to offer. The suspension is made firmer than the sedan. The steering, meanwhile, is also adequately weighted and responsive when turned off-centre. The biggest difference between the two models is the tires. The 2.5 S comes with P215/60R16 Continentals, while the 3.5 SE comes with P215/55R17 Bridgestones.

Other remarkable features of the Coupe include the Nissan headlight bulb, a push-button start, the dual-zone climate control, cruise control and heated seats, power mirrors, windows and sunroof, a six-speaker audio system with an auxiliary plug-in, six air bags and standard anti-lock brakes.

According to critics, the Altima Coupe is going to earn quite a following, simply because it blends an upscale interior with good road manners and affordability. The fact that there are shades of the Infiniti G35 coupe in its bold styling only helps the cause. It will also go a long way in legitimizing the much-maligned CVT.

Nissan recently invited some journalists to test-drive some of their new and revised product lines. Aside from the Altima Coupe, Nissan flaunted the new long-wheelbase Titan, upgraded the Pathfinder with a V8, and the quieter Armada.

The way Nissan explains it, there is a need for this vehicle in the marketplace, even if Toyota has decided to drop its Solara model because of declining sales. Main competitors for the company will be the Honda Accord coupe, Pontiac G6, and the Hyundai Tiburon - all of which the new Nissan entry beats on price in every similarly-equipped head-to-head price battle.

The automaker expects the coupe to be well-liked by women, many of whom will go for the more economical 2.5-liter I-4. Nissan also foresees that the average purchaser of the Coupe to be younger - those not quite ready to take the dive into the more responsible and mature sedan or minivan market. Also, the Coupe is expected to pull in some older purchasers who might want to exercise their "free-spirit" wings as their kids start leaving the house.

Why You Should Donate Your Car To Melwood

Paying It Forward was a concept presented in a similar-named movie in which the actor, Haley Joel Osment, is a young boy who thought of a project for school that would require people to do a random act of kindness for someone else that this person could not do for themselves to help them at a desperate time without expecting anything in return.

We all are presented with an opportunity where we too can do a seemingly random kind act to help an organization dedicated to ensuring that people with developmental disabilities have every possible opportunity for advancement and success. Developmental disabilities come in many forms, and each of them are quite incapacitating. Any person suffering from a developmental disability is at a distinct disadvantage.

But Melwood believes that this shouldn't be the case and Melwood believes that these people with direction can be contributing members of our society in a positive way. The mental and physical impairments associated with the limits of disease, though they can rarely be cured, are able to be dealt with in such a way so that people with disabilities realize they are stronger than the disease and are able to live life to the fullest.

To fund its programs, Melwood has created the Melwood car donation program in which all profit – EVERY LAST CENT – that is gained from the sale of a donated car goes to help provide for the financial costs of Melwood's many programs. These projects may be for educational projects, livelihood support, research and development, recreational activities all geared towards giving the patient a clearer perspective on how his life can be lived and how strong he really is compared to the disease he has to endure.

Conducting a Melwood car donation is easy and convenient. You could call them at 1-877-MELWOOD for a guided, step-by-step process to facilitate your donation. Or you could even complete the bulk of the paperwork comfortably at home using their online form at https://www.melwood.com/donatecar/cardonationform.html

A Melwood car donation is never burdensome. Once your used car is ready for pick up, Melwood will even send in a towing or transport service to pick up the car.

Every car donated to Melwood is entitled to receiving the benefits of a tax deduction which is equal to the selling price of the car. But the tax deduction is just icing on the cake. The real joy of donating a car to Melwood comes from knowing that you have done a great thing to help someone who is unable to help themselves.

This is the primary benefit of charity, and your car donation is one way of paying the benefits and goodness of charity forward to help someone else. Just visit our website for more information on Melwood Car Donation and related information.