17 May

2006 Pontiac Solstice Cruises Down The Road

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From the brand that produces cars that boast of exemplary performance, the 2006 Pontiac Solstice is indeed one of those vehicles that draw lots of attention. Indeed, as a sports car, this vehicle sure is nimble and also offers excellent handling. It also has finesse that most sports cars do not even know how to define.
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From the brand that produces cars that boast of exemplary performance, the 2006 Pontiac Solstice is indeed one of those vehicles that draw lots of attention. Indeed, as a sports car, this vehicle sure is nimble and also offers excellent handling. It also has finesse that most sports cars do not even know how to define. And for sports car lovers, the 2006 Pontiac Solstice is one of the most affordable sports vehicles in the market.

Produced by General Motors and marketed under the Pontiac brand, the Pontiac Solstice is new to the market. In fact, it has just been in production starting this year, 2006. It is a sports car that has been built in one body style which is the roadster with two doors. The FR Kappa platform was used in building this sports car and it also has been equipped with a 2.4 liter Ecotec I4 engine. Assisting in its performance is a five speed Aisin AR5 manual transmission system or a five speed 5L40-E automatic transmission. Designed by automobile stylist Wayne Cherry, the Pontiac Solstice is going to be considered as a competition by cars like the Nissan 0Z, Honda S2000, Mazda MX-5, as well as the Chrysler Crossfire.

The 2006 Pontiac Solstice certainly looks like the classic sports cars from the 1950s which is coupled up with its own share of uniqueness that the overall effect leads to an original design that is a blend of the past and the future. This sports car also offers the best kind of comfort that most sports cars do not offer. Because of its long wheelbase, passengers do not have to be cramped and uncomfortable once inside the cabin. Packed with features for entertainment and for comfort, a ride inside the 2006 Pontiac Solstice is going to be very interesting.

15 May

2006 Ford Taurus: Swan Song

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After twenty years of production the Ford Taurus prepares to sail off into the great car lot in the sky. R.I.P.
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The 2006 model year will end the heralded Taurus name and for this writer it is a bittersweet time as Ford retires what once the best selling car in all of America.

When Ford introduced the Taurus along with its cousin the Mercury Sable in the mid 1980s the car represented a radical departure from the standard American car of the day. Fairly large, front wheel drive, and very aerodynamic, the Taurus quickly rose to the pinnacle of the American car sales charts and was the best selling car for several years in a row. A much delayed “reskinning?did not occur until 1996, some ten years after the Taurus and Sable were first released. The new style, perceived by some to be ugly, quickly cost Ford sales as newer and more modern Toyota Camrys and Honda Accords out gained the line. Slight changes in style incorporated with the 2000 model year took some of the edge off, but by then the Taurus was considered to be too old and outmatched by the competition.

I purchased an all new 1994 Taurus and kept the car for seven years, racking up 117,000 miles before deciding it was time to trade in the car for something newer. I found the ride to be comfortable, the interior room to be expansive, and I enjoyed the overall style of the car. I was also one of the first people to purchase a Taurus in the then new Hunter Green color, an attractive deep green that was admired by many.

When 2001 rolled around, I elected to lease a Saturn L series instead of going with the Taurus. I needed something similar in size with the Taurus and at that time Saturn had a lease deal that could not be beat. In addition, I still wasn’t impressed with the Taurus which I felt had been out-engineered by other cars in its class. So, I took home the Saturn and donated my Taurus to the Kidney Foundation.

The 2005 model year represented the final year that Ford would offer the Taurus through dealers; for 2006 the Taurus is only available as a fleet car and it is unchanged from the previous year’s model. The slow selling Sable was mercifully put to rest one year earlier.

For Ford, concentrating on trucks and SUVs meant neglecting much of their car line up, including the Taurus. Bigger and stronger SUVs, including the Expedition and Excursion, were introduced as America’s tastes continued to shift from passenger cars to SUVs. In addition, the ever popular F Series pick up trucks went through regular style and engineering changes every four years or so as did the Explorer, Ford’s midsized SUV.

Higher gas prices and changing tastes are once again impacting Fords?line up. The beefy Excursion is gone and new cars including the Five Hundred and Fusion are now part of the line up. These two new models represent a fresh change for Ford and a promise that the attention once given to the Taurus would be given to the new models. For that, I am glad.

13 May

Are You Smelling Car Trouble?

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There are distinct smells that emanate from your car as it goes through time and use. However, as the owner or driver, you would know that these are the usual odors and that would not be something to get alarmed about. What you should be on the alert about are some types of smells or odors that seem to be different, and out of the ordinary.
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What is the usual smell that your car has?

For most cars the usual smell would be the scent of leather or of the materials used. This usually goes for those newly purchased cars. On the other hand, there are also distinct smells that emanate from your car as it goes through time and use. However, as the owner or driver, you would know that these are the usual odors and that would not be something to get alarmed about.

What you should be on the alert about are some types of smells or odors that seem to be different, and out of the ordinary. These are the smells that you should be aware about for they could conceal something much more serious than simply a smell out of place.

If you smell an odor emanating from your exhaust, it could indicate that there is a leak in the exhaust system. It could mean a hole in your car’s tailpipe, exhaust pipe, exhaust manifold, or even the muffler. It could also mean that your hatchback or rear door already has a worn out seal. If this happens, you should take on the challenge immediately for you might get carbon monoxide inside your car which could get pretty deadly. What you should do is to bring your car to a mechanic right away.

If you smell raw gas, it could mean that there is a leak in your car’s fuel delivery system. What could be affected is your car’s fuel lines, gas tank, or your fuel filter. This is also dangerous for any fuel leaks could spark a car fire. You can remedy the situation by first seeking if you have put back the gas cap right on properly. If this does not seem to be the problem, then go straight away to your mechanic.

The smell of rotten eggs could also be something that you may notice and this means that your catalytic converter has become plugged. Once you smell this, go see your mechanic so as to remedy the problem.

11 May

Audi TT: Tourist Trophy

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Audi’s popular little coupe/roadster is poised to grow up when the next generation of the TT is released in 2007. See what Audi has in store for its tourist trophy.
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Audi broke the mold when its concept TT car was presented at auto shows around the globe during the mid1990s. Named for the prestigious annual “Tourist Trophy?race held on the Isle of Man, the TT is based on the same platform which powers the Volkswagen Golf and the Skoda Octavia. Making use of anodized aluminum and a “bumper free?exterior, the TT coupe was unlike any car of its time when the first production model was released in 1998. Today, the TT continues to garner awards and win praises from Audi aficionados. If you like the current model, just wait one year and you will witness the release of a TT that goes well beyond the pale.

When talking about the TT, there are actually two models involved: one being a coupe, the other a roadster. Shortly after the coupe’s introduction in 1998, the roadster version was released the following summer. Both models were originally powered by a 20 valve inline 1.8L four cylinder engine, however in subsequent years each model received a more powerful version of that engine while a 3.2L V6 was introduced as an option during 2003. The TT is powered by its front wheels, but Quattro all wheel drive is available as well.

Audi’s success with the TT has helped it to cautiously develop its second generation model. Nearly a full decade after the original model made its debut the follow up TT is being readied and will go into production in 2007. The new TT will feature the following attributes:

Longer and Wider: Slight changes in its width and length will be incorporated into the new model. Expect more cabin room for added interior comfort.

Aluminum and Steel: The new TT will be made up of aluminum in the front and steel in the rear to encourage a better weight balance.

More Power: The 1.8L I4 engine will be replaced with a 2.0L I4 engine. The 3.2L V6 will still be offered, producing 250 horsepower. A six speed manual transmission will be standard equipment.

More Models: The coupe and roadster will be introduced back to back with a third model, possibly a wagon version, also being considered for production.

Principal competitors for the Audi TT have been the BMW Z4 and the Mercedes SLK. The TT’s styling inspiration has found its way onto several other models including the Saturn Sky, Mazda Miata, Nissan 0Z, and the Pontiac Solstice. In all, the Audi TT has reinvigorated the roadster market and it appears that the upcoming TT will expand on that theme even further. This is great news for enthusiasts who want a unique and well engineered 2+2 car as part of their driving stable.

9 May

Auto Parts Online Blog, Updating Information on Autos

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The Auto Parts Online Blog is a part of Auto Parts Online’s commitment to providing its wide customer base the latest breakthroughs and most updated information regarding automobiles, auto parts, and other things related to automobiles.
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So what’s new in the automobile world?

There are many resources for the latest and breaking news and information with regards to the automobile world. After all, there is a huge number of people who have been converted to automobile aficionados and fanatics. Some of them could not help but want to share the information with the rest of the globe. Try searching the World Wide Web and you would be able to encounter many websites and blogs that lean towards automobile news and other information regarding anything and everything concerning cars, vehicles, and autos.

The Auto Parts Online Blog could be considered to be just another blog in the cornucopia of auto blogs. However, what sets this blog apart is that every blog entry and article has been systematically researched, carefully thought over, as well as wistfully and creatively crafted. To add to the reading and viewing pleasure of guests of this auto blog, colorful, vivid and symbolic pictures had been added in. the pictures could be considered eye candy. This makes reading the Auto Parts Online Blog interesting and worth reading.

The Auto Parts Online Blog is a part of Auto Parts Online’s commitment to providing its wide customer base the latest breakthroughs and most updated information regarding automobiles, auto parts, and other things related to automobiles. Auto Parts Online is one of the leading suppliers of auto parts. This online store holds a huge array of car parts, auto parts, and accessories that have been carefully categorized for easy browsing. Interested parties may choose to search for parts either by vehicle brand, or by type of part. This online store has been in the business for more than twenty five years.

Through the Auto Parts Online Blog, Auto Parts Online is able to provide its customers and its patrons the breaking news, events, and breakthroughs in the automobile world. Just like in supplying auto parts, this auto blog contains quality information that does not compromise high standards.

At present, the latest news that you could find at the Auto Parts Online Blog includes a list of the best vehicles that one could see at the Chicago Auto Show, a look at the Honda Insight and Honda Civic GX which have been chosen by the American Council for Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as the most environment-friendly vehicles for 2006, a quick walk-thru on mechatronics, a review of the 2007 Lincoln Navigator, and a comprehensive look at safety gadgets for vehicles among many others.

The Auto Parts Online Blog is updated regularly so it is worth visiting. The articles and blog entries are worthy to read and are presented in an easy to read format. Automobile aficionados and followers have constantly been visiting this blog for more information. If there are any comments, reviews, reactions, raves, or rants, the Auto Parts Online Blog allows this through a link found at the start of each article. Any person could put in whatever is on their mind regarding each article. This auto blog serves and functions as an avenue for these automobile followers to come together and share information.

7 May

Auto Bill of Sale Forms

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When selling or buying a used car, you should get / give an Auto Bill of Sale Form.
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It is important to complete an auto bill of sale form when selling or buying a used car. For the seller, an auto bill of sale form provides proof that title to the used car has been legally transferred. For the buyer, the auto bill of sale form documents the purchase of the used car. The auto bill of sale form should contain:

1. name and address of the buyer;
2. name, address and signature of the seller;
3. complete vehicle description, including the Vehicle Identification Number(VIN);
4. description of trade-in, if any;
5. purchase price of the vehicle.

Auto bill of sale forms are required in many states to register the newly purchased used car. These states usually require a state specific auto bill of sale form that documents specific information such as the purchase price for tax assessment or to obtain the actual mileage/odometer reading of the used car. A generic auto bill of sale form will not be accepted in these states. You will need to obtain a state specific auto bill of sale form.

To register a used car in other states, all that’s required is that the title assignment section on the title be completed and signed. Many of these states have added to the title assignment section of the title the information that was previously collected with separate documents (i.e. odometer disclosure statement, sales price/tax statements, etc.). In these states, an auto bill of sale form is not required to register the used car and is used by the seller/buyer to document the initial sale/purchase of the automobile.

5 May

Avoiding The Hot Cars

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Be vigilant and be always on the alert, especially if you are buying a vehicle. The term “hot car?is usually used to refer to a vehicle that has been stolen. As a buyer, you surely would not want to have a stolen vehicle right in your hands.
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Be vigilant and be always on the alert. Especially if you are buying a vehicle. Be sure to scrutinize every aspect of the vehicle that you are eyeing. Of course, you would want to buy a vehicle that is in good condition and would give you the satisfaction you are looking for. And yes, you also have to be on the lookout for you may be purchasing a hot car.

The term “hot car?is usually used to refer to a vehicle that has been stolen. The common knowledge is that once a car gets stolen, it is taken to the chop shop and the parts are sold individually. You see, at present, some thieves do not simply chop up your vehicle. They have found that they can sell a car they stole without dissecting them into pieces. All they need to do is roll back the odometer and the car would look like good as new. Now, as a buyer, you surely would not want to have a stolen vehicle right in your hands.

If you find a vehicle that is sold for a much lower cost that you imagined it would be, ask yourself first the probably reasons why it is sold for such a low price. Cars that are usually sold with low prices when it could have been more have actually something wrong with it. Maybe it was stolen. Maybe it has been flood-damaged. Maybe it has already been in an accident.

To make sure, you can also check the seller’s name as well as his address. Compare that piece of information with the title and the registration of the vehicle. Verify these pieces of information as well. The vehicle identification number (VIN) should also help. Dents, scratches or loose rivets on the plate would mean that it may have been tampered. Then, check the VIN with the number on the title given to you. The Department of Motor Vehicles may also help. You can ask them to run a title history just to be on the safe side.

Now, if you do encounter a stolen vehicle, be on the alert and report the matter immediately to the authorities.

3 May

2006 Kia Rio: Use and Toss?

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There are small cars that are built to last and then there are small cars that provide value without much comfort. The Kia Rio falls into this second category.
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Kia vehicles have managed to make significant strides in quality and durability since being introduced to the US market in 1994. Widely panned by critics as producing cheaply built and cheaply priced models, some Kia models are now performing at average or slightly above. The Kia Rio is not one of these cars, however. Only the extended warranty makes the Rio worth a look otherwise slightly more expensive cars from Toyota are preferable.

With a base MSRP of just $10,7, the Kia Rio is touted as “still the most affordable 4-door sedan in America.?Certainly, when it comes to price, the Rio is a winner. Add in standard features such as dual remote mirrors, driver lumbar support seats, and the extended warranty, and the car is a value leader. Of course, air conditioning will cost you extra and don’t expect to find any type of radio in the car either unless you pay extra for it. Remember, the emphasis is on value, not equipment.

The Kia is powered by a 1.6L DOHC 16 valve I4 engine paired with a five speed manual transmission. The five passenger sedan produces an anemic 104hp; a four speed automatic transmission is optional.

Various upgrade packages allow consumers to select additional “comfort and convenience?options as well as safety features including four wheel antilock brakes. One almost thinks that a customer would do better purchasing the basic model and then purchasing Kia accessories through a parts wholesaler to maximize the car’s value.

The best part of the Rio — or any Kia car for that matter — is the extended warranty, one of the best in the industry. Without it, the Rio would be truly forgettable. Kia’s warranty covers the following:

  • Limited Powertrain: 10 years or 100,000 miles
  • Limited Basic: 5 years or 60,000 miles
  • Limited Anti-Perforation: 5 years or 100,000 miles
  • Roadside Assistance: 5 years / unlimited miles

    The Kia Rio serves the purpose of providing cheap, basic transportation. If you drive a lot and need an economical car, then the Rio is worth a look. Just don’t think that the car rises to the level of a Toyota, otherwise you will be sorely disappointed. You may get five or six good years out of the car before its value decreases to the point where it simply should be discarded.

  • 1 May

    Accidents? What Do You Do?

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    Accidents could happen anytime. In fact, even if you are the careful driver or even if you are the reckless driver, you could actually meet accidents on the road. In the trunk, there should also be cones, warning triangles and emergency flares.
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    Accidents could happen anytime. In fact, even if you are the careful driver or even if you are the reckless driver, you could actually meet accidents on the road. Sometimes, it even happens right on your street just as you are pulling away from your garage.

    What do you do when you get involved and be part of a traffic accident?

    According to the Consumer Protection Association of America, they are continually developing a list of suggestions to help drivers anticipate what they actually need to know when they have to deal with a traffic accident. This organization is also continuously increasing public awareness on traffic safety. The president of the association, Dr. Ray Bruce, state, “These tips (on dealing with accidents) can make a big difference in everything from protecting yourself and your passengers to ensuring that you won’t be without a car while yours is in the shop.?

    Always have an emergency kit in your glove compartment. This should include a cellular phone, a pen, a paper, and a disposable camera. These would be to take important information about the scene. There should also be a card carrying information about your medical allergies or conditions that may require special attention. In the trunk, there should also be cones, warning triangles and emergency flares.

    If you are involved in minor accidents and there are no serious injuries, move your cars to the side. Do not stay on the road and bother oncoming traffic. If you do such a thing, chances are that there might be more traffic accidents headed your way because of your vehicles obstructing the road. On the other hand, if the car cannot be moved, make sure that you warn other motorists by setting out your hazard lights, cones, flares, or warning triangles.

    Exchange information with the other parties involved. Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance companies, policy numbers, drivers license numbers, and license plate numbers. Also, take down the description of each car, the year, make, model, and color. The location of the collision and how it happened should also be recorded.

    29 April

    Buying Classic Chevy Trucks

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    Buying a classic Chevy truck is like purchasing a new one. You need to think of the qualifications and set high standards. Remember that you buy a classic Chevy truck not for long distance travel or heavy work loads but only for fun.
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    Chevy trucks aficionados are not just after the newer trucks built by Chevrolet. They are also into oldies but goodies trucks that have been magnificently preserved for long years. In fact, one can still find Chevy trucks made some 60 to 70 years ago. The vintage sensation that a classic Chevy truck bring is something invaluable.

    For so many decades, Chevrolet proved that their makes are still the most loved by Americans. Consider the wonderful cruising that a Chevy truck gives. Plus the unimaginable sensation of driving a Chevy truck off road. Maybe regarded to be as satisfying.

    When buying a classic Chevy truck, prefer the 1955- models. Chevy trucks during these times are gorgeous, solid and hard. Not to mention the heavy masculine inclination of the designs. Classic Chevy trucks during these years are really worth the price.

    Art Deco trucks have its distinctive look for a Chevy truck. These trucks have marvelous front grills. These were made sometime from 1941 to 1946. However, many hot rodders prefer the 1955 to 19 models.

    Chevy trucks of the 1960′s were some what remakes of the 1950′s. Maintaining the muscular details and clean look and cutting only some small details. These trucks were out from 1960 to 1966. The next batch, 1967-1972 Chevy truck models, was more developed in terms of design but with plain
    look.

    Buying a classic Chevy truck is like purchasing a new one. You need to think of the qualifications and set high standards. You also need to inspect the Chevy trucks for any damage or unwanted parts. Here are suggestions on what to do in inspecting your desired classic Chevy truck:

    ?Prepare several questions that will help you in arriving at your desired model. You may ask yourself what year and model you want to purchase, the design, the price, etc.
    ?Call the owner or the selling company and ask for the history of the truck. The history includes the age of the truck, the number of times it has undergone repair and so on. Do not rely on the answers on the phone. Visit the company or the owner and propose a test drive. That move will prove whether the seller is really telling the truth.
    ?Make an appointment with your mechanic. Tell him that you are to bring a truck for inspection. Make sure you are in the shop during the inspection.
    ?Do a general check up on the truck. You may not like your prospective truck to have leaks, rust, old hoses, etc.
    ?Look for past repair documentation. This must be provided by the selling company or the owner. This document is very important so that you may not have any hassle to find out what is really wrong with the truck.
    ?Set a price according to the inspection, the test drive and the history. Make sure that, whatever price you may end up with, you are still the most benefited.

    Remember that you buy a classic Chevy truck not for long distance travel or heavy work loads but only for fun. You buy one to have the unexplainable feelings that other classic Chevy truck owners profess. Make sure also that you are satisfied with the result of the inspection made by your mechanic. Bear in mind also that you are buying a vintage car and not rubbish.