Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

SUV Owners Pay More for Insurance

Hortencia Privett is like thousands of other owners of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). Privett admits that she loves what she drives, a silver 2002 Jeep Liberty, but insurance experts caution that she and other SUV owners have to pay considerably more for insurance than those tooling around town in smaller cars.The cost to insure an SUV is generally 10 to 20 percent more than a car, depending o. . .

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

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 n. . .

Famous Ford Flops

American automakers sometimes get the brunt of the criticism for producing models that are ugly, useless, or even downright dangerous. Ford has had its share of beasts through the years in addition to several winners including the current Mustang for which demand cannot be met. For the fun of it let’s take a look at some of the Ford models that have been derided down through the years.Model T –. . .

Muscle Cars, Like Dinosaurs, Once Ruled The Earth

Detroit, or the world, has never produced an automobile that rivals the muscle cars of the 1960’s and early 1970’s. They were big, powerful and wonderfully unrefined. No one would call them sports car in the traditional sense. They were not nimble and curves were dangerous at most any speed. However, what they lacked in sophistication they made up for in brut force. In many ways the GTO’s, Must. . .

A Rookies Guide to Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a lot of fun, just plain fun. Car rentals offer the renter the opportunity to drive a car, truck or SUV that they normally would not or could not buy. Renting a car is for a weekend get away, to impress someone or just to have something different to drive for a couple of days are some of the most popular reasons to visit a rental company. However, as fun as it is to rent ca. . .

Maintaining Your Car Will Make It Last Longer

Regular maintenance of your vehicle will extend its life perhaps well beyond what you or others may think is its normal lifespan. Today’s cars can easily top the 100,000 mile mark with many cars on the road exceeding 150,000, 200,000, even 250,000 miles. Ask owners of high mileage cars how they got to that point and most will point to their own rigorous and disciplined maintenance schedules as . . .

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 firs. . .

How to Start Your Search for the Perfect SUV Accessory

You finally did it. You went out and bought the SUV that you have always wanted. So now, you can see over the cars next to you at the intersection and you don't really have to worry about the idiot in lane next to you on the cell phone, after all, you can roll right over him. Now what? You want to personalize your SUV, make it reflect who you are, right? Right, you need SUV accessories. There a. . .

How to Pick the Best Radar Detector for You

In today's high speed, gotta have it now society, the desire to protect oneself from a speeding ticket it growing ever greater. The best way to avoid the dreaded speeding ticket, you need to have a radar detector. You need the best that you can afford, but what is that, how do you choose? The following tips will help you pick the best radar detector for you.1- Do you remember the last speeding . . .

Auto Parts Fast Features the Best Headlights, Taillights,...

Auto lights are indispensable in a vehicle; they serve as our extra eyes, especially at night and during low visibility driving conditions. Most of car accidents resulted from the driver’s inability to see upcoming vehicles and pedestrians and fixtures on the road, especially at night. Because of this, the use of lights like the headlights and taillights has been required by the law. Each kind . . .

Auto Parts Deal Offers Solution to Your Common Car Problems

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 part. . .

Honda Sneak Peek: The Fit?

Credit Honda with not giving up easily in what will certainly become a big fight: the sub $15,000 price range category of new automobiles. Currently, only a stripped down Civic competes in this area and I mean stripped: no a/c, basic tranny, no radio! With Toyota's Scion brand catching on Honda is looking to fight back. A tiny car now on sale in Japan may soon find its way to a dealership in yo. . .

2007 GMC Yukon: Still Too Much?

I realize I may be stepping on some toes, but please hear me out. The upcoming, new from the ground up, GMC Yukon is certain to be perceived by some as being too much…in size, that is. With fuel prices at an all time high and consumer sentiment shifting to smaller vehicles will the GMC Yukon be considered outdated even before it hits showroom floors in Spring 2006? Let’s take a look at many of . . .

The Five Most Common Mistakes When Buying Car Speakers

When it comes time to buying replacement speakers for a car audio system, there are several mistakes which are commonly made. Be sure to read this handy guide to avoid the five most common mistakes when buying car speakers.1. Plan your budget. Are you revamping your entire audio system? If so you need to allocate money to different parts of the system. If you are just changing the speakers,. . .

How To Change Auto Insurance Companies

Changing Auto Insurance Companies May be Easier Than you Think!There are many reasons why you may choose to change your auto insurance coverage to another company. Perhaps you’ve found another company that offers you the same amount of coverage for considerably less money. You might have changed jobs and are eligible for a group discount through another insurer, or maybe you’re unhappy with the. . .

Toyota Modified Valve Body

As many Toyota and Jeep owners know, the AW4 / Toyota 340, A340, and A341E series of transmissions are generally very well made and demonstrate excellent durability in unmodified applications. The framework is present for an extremely strong transmission that is to be used in a high performance or extreme duty application. The problem is that the original calibration is engineered for driver co. . .

Correct Diesel Tuning

Diesel tuning is more important than we think. Lets get down to the basics.Diesel is distilled crude oil (Distillate). Unlike what most ‘Hollywood’ movies promote of a diesel truck hitting a wall and exploding like a small nuclear bomb, oil does not readily ignite, particularly a liquid form. If we atomise it though, it will burn readily. The diesel principle relies on air being compressed to a. . .

Generator Field Study

Generators are essential for fieldwork done by consultants often exposed to remote areas where electricity is not available. A Goscor Engines customer recently did an intensive study to establish which generators are suitable for use with sensitive equipment such as the Cedip product range where spike and dips in power supply are very unhealthy for the equipment used. Prior to doing the compara. . .

Modern Materials In Hubcaps And Wheel Covers

Our father’s and grandfathers’ wheel covers were gleaming orbs of chrome plated steel, glittering wire spoke patterns, or flat chrome Frisbee look-alikes. Before 1980, chrome plated steel was the only material light and strong enough to do the job. Unfortunately, plated steel thin and light enough for hubcaps was easily dented, and if scratched or driven in winter, i.e., in salt conditions, was. . .

Tips for Finding an Automotive Loan

There's a good chance that at some point you're going to have to apply for an automotive loan, also known as a car loan … auto financing has grown into one of the largest loan industries in the world today. With the cost of new cars and trucks on the market today, it's perfectly understandable why a person would likely need to finance their new vehicle. Of course, depending upon your credit sco. . .

Getting the Best Deal on Auto Insurance

Let your fingers do the walking... Remember that Yellow Pages Ad Campaign? Excellent advice if you’re shopping for auto insurance. Shop around and do it yearly. Don’t just keep paying the invoice over and over without comparison shopping. Below are a few suggestions to help you get the best deal available on your automobile insurance policy. Insurance agents really have a lot of leeway. They ca. . .

Auto Parts Wholesale Offers Better Services, More Exciti...

Good news to auto users, car enthusiasts, hobbyists, auto mechanics, and DIY customers! The most experienced team in the auto parts business, Auto Parts Wholesale is here to give you the best deals ever. You are guaranteed up to 110% lowest price. Apart from this, more auto parts, better online store and improved services are also waiting for you online!Starting from small beginnings more than . . .

My Credit Affects My Car Insurance Rate?

You probably know that lenders use information in your credit report to determine if they'll give you credit. But did you know that in some states, insurance companies also consider your credit history? Good or bad, your credit history may affect your ability to purchase homeowners or auto insurance coverage and help determine what premium you'll pay.For example, consider these scenarios:Two ye. . .

Dodge Buzz: Upcoming Models

DaimlerChrysler’s Dodge division has certainly been making a name for itself over the past decade. No longer in the shadow of Chrysler or a carbon copy of Plymouth, Dodge has its own vehicles stamped with its own unique personality. The Charger is Dodge’s latest hot model; what can Dodge do for an encore? Read on for all the exciting details!Caliber – The compact Neon is dead and a replacement. . .

Maintain and Upgrade Your Ford Vehicle through Ford Parts...

Ford vehicles are known for their toughness and reliability; however just like other vehicles you see on the road, they are subject to regular car maintenance and occasional repair. Its original Ford parts may wear down over time and so you would need to replace them. However, you too can replace stock parts and equipments in your Ford vehicle to upgrade its performance especially when your car. . .

Foggy Motorcycle Ride

Beach, chilly fruit shakes, summer babes in hot bikinis and summer escapades – pretty sure you are missing them all. Summer lovin’ is left behind let’s give winter its chance to freeze us.Chillin’. Freezin’. Glazin’. Winter time is fast approaching. Skiing will just be as fun as decorating the streets and homes with glitzy lanterns and greetings for the Christmas season. The frostiness of the f. . .

Motorcycle Misfits – The Unwanted Riders

When we are off the road, we learn to stereotype motorcycle drivers. Some are lousy, some good, others not so good, a number are excellent while the rest are misfits. How we wish we can get rid of them…It only takes one reckless driver to doom an innocent passerby or rider. Same number can also cause significant pandemonium. Misfits are everywhere. They cause not only heavy traffic but overwhel. . .

Nissan Buzz: Future Cars

Nissan Motors continues to make important strides in becoming one of the highest quality automakers on the scene in North America today. Long living in the shadow of Japanese stalwarts Honda and Toyota, Nissan is fighting back with a series of new or updated models to cut into the Honda-Toyota dominance. Can they succeed? You be the judge as we take a look at four coming attractions soon to mak. . .

You Can Install A Performance Exhaust System

If you are considering replacing your vehicle’s exhaust system, a performance exhaust system can be an ideal choice, offering to you many benefits over a stock exhaust system. Let’s examine the benefits of installing a performance exhaust system versus a stock exhaust system.1. More Power – One of the obvious benefits of a performance exhaust system is more power for your car. Using catalyst ba. . .

Bugs and Cars: No Match There

For those of us living in the southern US states, the proliferation of the insect population is a recognizable part of southern living. Evidence of the huge bug population is manifest on vehicles across the southland in warmer months, particularly on the hood, in and against the grille, and right on the windshield. Fortunately, two products have been developed that can effectively combat the re. . .

Plugin Diesel Power

With ever rising fuel costs and efiiciency now a major forcus of car manufacturers world wide and new product has been developed that can make all the difference for diesel vehicles.The mass-produced diesel car engine generally has a number of shortcomings that are the result of the necessity to meet a wide variety of service conditions and realities, such as variations in manufacturing toleran. . .

You Can Examine Your Brakes

Regular brake inspections are an essential part of good automotive maintenance that can save you money and keep your car from wrapping itself around the first tree out of your driveway. Make sure that your brakes and rotors are receiving the proper maintenance by following the steps outlined. Your safety as well as that of your passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers is at stake.1. Time for . . .

Volkswagen Parts: Getting the Real Deal

The growth of the counterfeits parts industry is causing problems for motorists, suppliers, manufacturers, and governments from around the world. Just how bad is the problem? For starters, the manufacturing and distribution of counterfeit car parts is a multi billion dollar per year business. Car owners from the Kia to the Camaro and from the Geo to the Golf, and every make and model in between. . .

Restyling and Upgrading Your Car Made Easy at Auto Parts ...

Because of their affordability, passenger cars are so popular and this means you see so many of them on the road or in a parking lot. For those who are passionate about cars and want to drive a unique vehicle, owning a passenger car may sound unfortunate. But try to look at it from a positive point of view, you would think otherwise. It gives you better opportunity to customize your vehicle and. . .

Tips On How To Buy A Used Car

With economics a major problem, used cars have become great alternatives to people who do not have much to spare in the financial area. Finding used cars is not really a problem as there are thousands of used cars outlets in the country. Buyers of used cars will, in fact, have a wide range of models and brands to choose from.But as these cars are already… well… used, it is important for buyers . . .

Tough, Powerful and Reliable Volvo Parts: To Match Volvo...

Among the most venerated and strongest-selling cars from Volvo is the Volvo 700 series. It was introduced in the 1980s initially as replacement for the Volvo 200 models. The earlier Volvo cars however, still generated high sales so the 700 series became another line of Volvo vehicles. Included in the series were the Volvo 740, Volvo 760 and Volvo 780. Each of these vehicles flaunted excellent d. . .

The Best Online Source for Quality Ford Explorer A/C Cond...

Ford Parts Discount [http://www.americanbodyparts.com] - the country’s top dealer of OEM-quality Ford parts, proudly features the best Ford Explorer parts [http://www.americanbodyparts.com/auto-body-parts/ford-explorer-parts.html] and millions of other Ford aftermarket and replacement auto parts at very low discount prices. This auto parts store adheres to Ford’s high quality standards so you . . .

Inexpensively Protect Your Automotive Investment with a C...

You’ve just purchased your dream car. After many months (or even years) of saving, you are now driving home from the car dealership and you suddenly realize, “How am I going to protect my new investment”. If you don’t have the luxury of keeping your car inside of a garage, a car cover will help protect your automobile, both the exterior and interior of your vehicle. Even if you do keep your car. . .

Getting Paid To Drive

There seems to be a never ending fascination to the notion that some people get paid to drive their cars. While it is true that a few lucky people are able to do this, the entire field of paid to drive opportunities has changed dramatically over the last few years.The get paid to drive concept was at the height of its popularity during the Internet bubble of the late 1990s. Roadside advertising. . .

2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata -- the Freewheeling Youth of the Sp...

Mazda has done it again. First, they reinvigorated the sports car market a decade and a half ago with the introduction of the Miata for 1990. Then the company followed that up with a redesigned version that was good enough to make Miata the biggest-selling sports car in history.Now, for 2006, they've topped that with a third-generation Miata that's as sophisticated as far more expensive sports . . .

A Woman's Guide to Basic Tire Care

Women certainly are not helpless. But sometimes we are a little overwhelmed working a 40-hour week, taking care of the children, cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry. The car is just another added burden when there isn't a man around to tinker with it. For the woman who finds herself in this situation, this is a short primer on routine tire care that will extend the life of your tires and ho. . .

The Rapid Vehicle Motor Company

The Rapid Motor Vehicle Company was started in 1902 by Max Grabowski.It was the manufacturer of some of the earliest trucks and was purchased in 1909 by GM. In 1912 the name GMC was first used at the New York Auto Show and in 1996 the suffix Truck was dropped.What most people don't know is that GMC also makes cars.In 1902 Max Grabowski founded a company called the "Rapid Motor Vehicle Company",. . .

The Safest Cars on the Road Keep Your Family Safe

When you go car shopping you are probably dazzled by the sports cars or even the big burly SUVs as well as the shiny colors and whether or not the vehicle is fully loaded. Frequently, you will hear people talking about what car they want to buy and will hear them mention things like leather seats, a great sound system, DVD players and mini TV screens, great rims and other similar features. Howe. . .

How To Reduce The Risk For Being A Victim Of Road Rage?

Traffic in large metropolitan areas is growing fast. The traffic volume is outgrowing the roads faster than expected and traffic jams are pre-programmed. Large volumes of traffic on a non-sufficient infrastructure are some of the biggest challenges drivers are facing. Driving turns into a tedious task and is no fun anymore. Stop and Go traffic; traffic jams; accidents; noise; the feeling of bei. . .

Own the Best Motorcycle Tire

All motorcycle parts are essential and tires are one of them. Tires have different types, sizes and surfaces for varying types of motorcycles. Dirt bikes and other racer’s bikes use tires that have spikes. Street bikes, on the other hand have smooth tires.Tires advance with time. In fact they have become more and more sophisticated in time. Manufacturers have come up with different types of com. . .

Toyota Parts Online Gears Up Your Toyota 4Runner for the ...

The Toyota 4Runner embodies your ideals of a sporty vehicle packed with power, rugged character and wide ranging utility. Since its debut in 1985, this vehicle has been Toyota’s strong contender in the Sport Utility Vehicle segment. It was loved for its reliability, sporty styling, functionality and utility.What sets 4Runners apart from the rest of the SUVs you can see on the road today is thei. . .

Famed OEM and Custom Motorcycle Fenders

Motorcycles evolve with time. Moreover, motorcycle parts also go with the flow of evolution. In addition, even fenders cope up with these moving changes. Buying Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) fenders is like buying the exact original fenders the manufacturer used to build. OEM fenders are simple, workable and widely available. Custom or aftermarket motorcycle fenders are becoming more a. . .

Catalytic Converters and Your Vehicle’s Emission System

Before 1975 no U.S. vehicle came equipped with a catalytic converter. Changes in environmental policy -- started with the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] by the Nixon Administration – soon changed all of that. Now, with very few exceptions, all vehicles must come outfitted with a catalytic converter. So, what does a catalytic converter do exactly? Good question…we will an. . .

Increase Your Torque And Save On Gas

If you were to mention to someone that most performance automotive parts can conserve fuel while producing more power, likely you would not be believed. In previous generations this statement would probably have held true, but today -- due to technological advances -- you can usually see an increase in power along with the added benefit of receiving a slight increase in fuel economy. This holds. . .

Lights, Lamps, and Bulbs; Oh My!

Can you imagine driving down the road at night with barely a flashlight bulb to guide your way? The first cars were outfitted with headlights that were just about that dim. Fortunately, lighting technology has improved to the point to where your car’s lights can cut through the darkness allowing you to see and to be seen from great distances. Headlights are a terrific and important part of your. . .