Edmunds and several leading automotive blogs are theorizing that Buick will finally go ahead and build a sport version of its popular LaCrosse midsize sedan. Unlike the original model, the proposed car will be a true roadster as Buick seeks to inject some youthfulness into its aging model line. This is big news for Buick, which hasn’t built a true youth oriented car since stopping production of the hot-rod Regal Grand National during the 1980s. Will the Super Sport be enough to help Buick recapture a lost segment of the marketplace? That remains open to debate, so let’s see what Buick is planning with the Super Sport and then you can decide for yourself.
For the past several years, Buick has been near the top in most customer satisfaction and quality surveys. After years of languishing much further down the list, Buick decided to truly emphasize quality and that move has paid off. However, quality cars are one thing while exciting cars are another. Quite simply, Buick hasn’t been building cars that are high on the “wow” factor list. Sales have remained flat as the age level of its buyers continued to rise. Anyone who understands the business of cars will tell you that you must continually appeal to a younger audience in order to grow and prosper. Let’s just say that even younger AARP drivers haven’t been heavily drawn to the current Buick model line up.
As far as the Super Sport goes, the car is based on the concept Velite a car that has been appearing at auto shows over the past few years. Much like the Lexus SC430, the Super Sport will be targeting upscale buyers attracted to a combination of luxury, performance, and premium styling. While drive train information hasn’t been finalized, reports of a 300 hp V8 being offered has been circulating. Likely, this engine will be mated to a six speed automatic. A 3.6L twin turbo producing more than 400 hp has also been rumored for the Super Sport, but that engine choice might be scratched if gas prices remain historically high.
Information about specific Super Sport features is rather limited, but if the car holds true to the Velite concept, buyers can expect the following with the Super Sport:
– Heritage styling based on a late 1930s Buick boat tail design. Buick’s recognizable waterfall grille design coupled with decorative side portholes are also expected to appear on the Super Sport.
– 20 inch front wheels and 21 inch rear wheels; rear wheel drive.
– Leather 2 plus 2 seating.
– A retractable hood that will fit snugly into the trunk.
– Full cabin amenities including OnStar and XM satellite radio switches integrated into the dashboard.
Beyond what has been listed, the rest is speculation including possible build and release dates for the Super Sport. GM’s current financial woes will impact the final decision on whether to build this car, but if approval is given a 2008 or 2009 release is possible.
Yes, Buick needs a car of this caliper to breathe new life into a rather uninspiring line up. Prices for the Super Sport will likely exceed $40,000 limiting the car’s appeal to those with significant means. Still, if Buick is able to pull it off the Super Sport it may pave the way for additional model changes, perhaps even opening the door for a Regal-inspired car to rejoin the line up. Now that would be great news for a brand that sorely needs a fresh youth injection.
Copyright 2006 - Matt Keegan is a freelance auto writer covering new and future models. Your Buick or other fine ride can benefit from the installation of popular aftermarket products by top manufacturers including Hooker, Toucan, and Gibson.
Are you looking to buy a used automobile for the first time? Are
you concerned about making the right choice? Yes, it’s true that
a car’s value will decrease the second you drive it off the lot,
all the more so with a brand new vehicle.
So, there is actually a great deal of merit in deciding to buy
used. In fact, you may save up to 50% on a well-maintained 2-4
year old used auto as compared to buying a new one.
Does it seem that your head is already swimming with a variety
of makes and models? Don’t despair! Purchasing a used car can
actually be very simple, if you follow some key steps in the
buying process:
1. Identify Driving Needs.One way to keep from getting
overwhelmed by the variety of cars available is for you to get
specific about what your driving needs are. This will help you
to stay focused on that sensible minivan you’ll need to drive
your three kids around, and to avoid getting sidetracked by that
gorgeous two-seater sports car you saw. Here are some questions
you may want to ask yourself before you begin looking:
How much money can I spend on a vehicle? How much can I
afford to pay on insurance? How many people will be depending
on this car for transportation?
What items will the car be transporting on a regular basis?
(groceries, equipment, etc.)
(If buying a minivan) should there be two sliding doors, or
only one? Right side? Or left side?
What is the maximum amount of mileage the car can have?
Will I be required to drive in potentially hazardous weather
conditions?
Do I want a standard, automatic or semi-automatic transmission?
Foreign or domestic?
2. Become Informed.Once you have clarified your specific
driving and transportation needs, it is time to search for the
specific kinds of cars that will meet your requirements.
Consumer Reports and online discussion groups and bulletins can
be useful sources of information with regard to different
vehicles, their pros and their cons.
3. Begin Your Search. Use several used car resources to
diversify your search. Try browsing the internet, using the
resources at your local library or skimming your local
newspaper. Once you have narrowed your search down to a handful
of used vehicles, you are ready to pick up the phone and inquire
about each one; but first, do a little research on what their
fair prices are. This will help you gauge the fairness of the
quoted price, taking into account the car’s age, mileage and
condition.
4.Uncover Maintenance and Warranty History. This is
perhaps the most important aspect to buying a used car. An
automobile that was diligently maintained will be a most
reliable vehicle that will require few repairs. On the other
hand, a car that was not cared for properly will be more likely
to give you problems in the near future. Here are some helpful
hints:
Ask the seller if the car comes with any records of oil
changes, routine services and repairs. Some car owners will keep
meticulous records. Run a Vehicle History Report online at
www.carfax.com or at www.autocheck.com. (Please Note: While
we do recommend using one of these services, do not be mis-lead
into believing that the reports are all inclusive of all damages
and histories) Take an online course at
www.usedcarwise.com to learn how to tell if a car has been in an
unreported accident or if it has been well maintained or not.
Check for any open recalls at www.nhtsa.dot.gov/
5. Go Out for a Test DriveIf you have made it this far in
the process, chances are you are ready to take your prospective
cars out for at least a 20-25 mile test drive over different
road surfaces. Here are some things to consider:
Can you adjust the seat, headrest, steering wheel and mirrors
to a position that is comfortable for you? Do all the locks,
windows, horn and lights function properly? How does the
engine sound? It should be smooth, without any tapping or
ticking, griding or rumbling If the car has power steering,
there should be no loud squealing noise when the wheel is
turned. If the brake pedal sinks all the way to the floor
after pumping it a few times, it may mean the car’s brakes need
work. Do the gears shift smoothly and crisply? Does the
steering wheel vibrate while you drive? The steering wheel
should stay steady.
These five easy steps will help you to narrow your choices and
to have a good used car-buying experience. If you know the
things to look for and what to avoid, you can land a sweet deal.
Finally, be sure to keep various choices in the running, since
having several options in mind will give you negotiating power.
Once you factor in all the variables, try to get a deal on the
best car you find; and remember that the time you invest in
researching and carefully investigating your choices will surely
pay off, both in the short and long-term.
To quote the phrase “patience is a virtue”. It’s true when
searching for a quality used car. Don’t get in a hurry, do your
research and minimize the risk of purchasing a lemon.
The Daewoo automobile manufacturer lived from 1967 up until it
was dismantled by the Korean government come 1999. The name
Daewoo is a Korean word that means “Great House”. This company
was founded by Kim Woo Choong, and also, this company became one
of the Big Four conglomerates in South Korean. Aside from the
usual cars and vehicles, the Daewoo Group also manufactured and
produced consumer electronics, computers, telecommunications
products, construction equipment, buildings, and musical
instruments like the Daewoo Piano. Under the Daewoo Group, there
were several major corporations that were sheltering under its
big industrial and conglomerate umbrella: the Daewoo
Electronics, Daewoo Heavy Industries, Daewoo Ship Building,
Daewoo Securities, Daewoo Telecom, Daewoo Construction, and
Daewoo International.
What affected Daewoo’s expansion and overall business was
generally cut down to several factors which included the South
Korea’s government’s intervention, the labor market, the
company’s operations in a global economy, and the quality of
products from Korea. Once all these affected the whole
operations, the Daewoo Group then decided to cut off one its
arms and thus sold Daewoo Motors, its automotive company, to
General Motors in the United States. At present, the Daewoo cars
that are under General Motors include the Leganza, Nubira, and
Lanos, and these are sold in the United States. However, in
other parts of the globe, especially in UK, other car models of
Daewoo are also sold like the Matiz, Kalos, Lacetti, and the
Tacuma.
Daewoo has sincerely made it a point to put its best foot
forward in every bit and piece that is manufactured as part of
the Daewoo vehicle clan. One of these unique and sturdy parts is
the Daewoo wheel.
The Daewoo wheel is a circular object that works together with
the vehicle’s axle. This kind of pairing up allows low friction
in motion by rolling. These are commonly used in conjunction
with an axle, and either the wheel turns on the axle or the
wheel is rigidly attached to the axle. This then turns in
bearings in the body of the Daewoo vehicle. All these could be
scientifically explained: the normal force at the sliding
interface is the same, the sliding distance is greatly reduced
for a given distance of travel, and the coefficient of kinetic
friction for the interface can be very much lower.
In Daewoo vehicles, Daewoo wheels are one of its
most striking vehicles, and they have the power and capability
to create and unmake its impression of a tough performance,
luxury and comfort. Also, these wheels are more often than not
used with not only performance and comfort in mind but also they
are used to accessorize and provide an aesthetic function. To
ensure safe and excellent driving and ride, Daewoo has
guaranteed they their Daewoo wheels have the right dimensions
and type and are made from quality and strong material.
Auto Parts Fast provides Daewoo owners, patrons,
and enthusiasts the best value for their Daewoo wheels and Daewoo parts. It is one of the
Internet’s most powerful and advanced auto parts shopping
systems.
If you have a boat trailer or have changed the spare tire on
your car, a torque wrench is a required tool and is simple to
use . Most people believe that “the tighter the better” is the
way to go. Your average person will simply grab an impact wrench
and tighten away. This is not the correct way to apply torque to
your wheels or other critical fasteners. Too much torque can add
stress to a lug nut and cause it to shear off. Also with head
bolts, the torque on those bolts determines the amount of
clamping force on the gasket. Over tightening those bolts can
crush the gasket or distort the metal. The better way to apply
the correct amount of foot pounds of torque is to use an
accurate torque wrench. There are several different types of
torque wrenches available out there. One type is the torque
wrench with a dial indicator built into it. The dial indicates
how many foot lbs of torque is being applied. Dial types are
generally more accurate and easier to read. This model is
generally the choice of professional mechanics where accurate
measurement is necessary. The dial indicator is more precise and
is easier to read. Some are available with a light or buzzer to
indicate when a preset torque value is achieved. Another
variation is the clicking type torque wrench. These are probably
the most popular and readily available. This torque wrench makes
a clicking sound when the preset torque is reached. This lets
you know to stop applying force to the nut you are fastening and
move to the next one. For most uses these type of wrenches work
just fine and are rugged and easy to use. For the person who
always the latest gadget, there are LED and LCD models available
as well. The display shows the precise foot lbs of torque. These
can usually switch between SAE and Metric as well. For most
garage mechanics and home owners, the clicking type torque
wrench is the best choice. Just remember to always check the
manufacturer specs for the recommended torque. Next time, you
need to tighten the nuts on your boat trailer, put down the
impact wrench and grab a torque wrench.
Cadillac’s luxury sports sedan, the Cadillac CTS has been bringing fame to its brand as well as unforgettable experiences for its drivers and passengers. The Cadillac CTS actually stands for “Catera Touring Sedan”. It holds four doors and has the capacity to take in a maximum of five passengers in its spacious cabin. This vehicle has also been made available in two trims which comprise of the 2.8 L Sedan, and the 3.6 L Sedan.
Upon its introduction, the Cadillac CTS 2.8 L Sedan comes equipped with the standard 2.8 liter V6 engine that is very much capable of providing some 210 units of horsepower. It also gives the Cadillac CTS the chance to achieve 17 mpg for city driving and 27 mpg on the highway. As per the Cadillac CTS 3.6 L Sedan, this vehicle comes with a standard 3.6 liter V6 engine capable of making 255 horsepower. It can give the Cadillac CTS a chance to roll along with 17 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Standard for both of these trim levels is a six speed manual transmission system with overdrive. Given as an option is a five speed automatic transmission system with overdrive.
This vehicle rolled off the Cadillac manufacturing plants using the General Motors’ new Sigma rear wheel drive architecture. To give credit to its brand name, this vehicle was nominated in 2002 for the North American Car of the Year award. Trivia has it that the Cadillac CTS was seen extensively in one of the car chase sequences in the 2003 movie, The Matrix Reloaded. Because of that stint, the first photographs of this vehicle were from that movie.
The Cadillac CTS comes in a package of features. For exterior colors, this luxury sports sedan could come in painted with light platinum, black raven, blackberry, blue chip, infrared, radiant bronze, sand storm, silver smoke, stealth gray, or white diamond. As per the interior, it could be ebony, light gray/ebony, or cashmere. Standard equipment for this includes driver and front passenger frontal air bags, head curtain side impact air bags, an AM/FM stereo with CD player, a digital clock, an auto tone control, an automatic volume, a Radio Data System, four wheel anti lock brakes, a dual-zone automatic climate controls, a cruise control system, power door locks, fog lamps, daytime running lamps, halogen headlamps, a wood trim for the interior, power adjustable and heated mirrors, the OnStar system, a remote keyless entry system, seat controls, and the XM Satellite Radio.
Auto Accessories Giant’s high quality Cadillac accessories can maintain all of the impressive qualities of the Cadillac CTS and Cadillac vehicles.
Shane is a 34-year-old native of Ohio. She love cars and knows detailed information about them. She has a collection of miniature car collectibles and would love to have these collectibles become real ones. She works for a car part supplier most days of the week.
In the last few days the Irish Transport Minister has received yet another set back to his ill conceived plans to outsource the handling of Driving Tests by a Private Company. Successive transport Ministers over the last number of years have had to grapple with many anomalies in the Driving scene in Ireland. Each one has thrown himself wholeheartedly into the fray and buckled down to the task of addressing his own favourite topic.
That’s all well and good but unfortunately the Democratic system of Government has a habit of throwing up Cabinet reshuffles every so often and occasionally a change of Political Party. All of this means that when change takes place, the agenda changes with it and little gets done or implemented in the way of new Driving Legislation.
The lengthy delays in getting a Driving Test appointment in Ireland have as much to do with the colossal numbers of new drivers entering the fray as it does with Governmental inactivity.
One in five of Ireland’s drivers are beginners, a total of 405,000 souls wandering around aimlessly, and far too many of them stay in the Learner Driver bracket for far too long due to the lack of mandatory tuition.
Most Countries in Europe have a well established routine for Learner Drivers who are not permitted to sit a Driving Test until they are ready .Who is to say when they are ready? Good question and a very easily answered one…the Driving School that teaches them!
In Ireland unfortunately at present we have no such established protocol with the result that the roads are a free for all and populated by tens of thousands of Learner Drivers who think that all they have to do is sit in the Driving seat and turn the Ignition on and all will be well!
Until there is mandatory tuition and a sensible system to regulate the numbers of beginner drivers applying for the Driving Test the waiting list will continue to rise inexorably. We are not saying for one moment that driving should be restricted to the privileged; more that there should be a recognised period of Driver Education and preparation and a stricter control of Drivers flaunting the basic laws of survival.
A free for all leads to the kind of catastrophic rise in accident statistics that we are seeing currently, which incidentally is being fuelled relentlessly by the large numbers of new Immigrants. As you might imagine these new arrivals are doing what they see others doing or getting away with, and in addition mostly come from countries with an even worse record of road fatalities than our own.
So it’s a problem spiralling out of control leading to untold personal and family misery and a huge drain on the local resources which are not equipped to deal with the carnage on such a level.
As we have said several times recently there will come a time when the killing has to stop and preventative action becomes the norm. Just when that will be is open to conjecture! Until then every learner driver has effectively been given an 007 attachment to their Provisional License.
Robin Piggott is a Professional Driving Instructor in Ireland who believes that a Driving License is not an inalienable right once you reach 17 but an important aspect of modern life that must be earnt through proper training and tuition.
His web site and blogs provide a wealth of hard earned information for the beginner Driver or indeed for those settling or touring in Ireland.
http://astraldrivingschool.blogs.ie
~THE BASE FORMULA ~
A “SETTLEMENT EXAMPLE”
Because I’ve received so many contacts, and questions, regarding BASE (The Baldyga Auto Accident Settlement Evaluation Formula) from the readers of the sensational EzineArticles.com I’ve decided to provide you-all with insights (via a “Settlement Example”) regarding THE BASE FORMULA.
OKAY, SO HERE WE GO: It’s 10:00 AM on a clear, dry day. You’re operating your motor vehicle north on Main Street in your home town. You’re 62 years old and the assistant manager of a local video store.
Fred Fuddle is a chronically unemployed local with a reputation for being a loud-mouth degenerate who has a string of convictions for drunken, disorderly conduct.
Fuddle is driving his dilapidated van at a high rate of speed, proceeding East on Elm Street. As you approach the intersection of Main and Elm you have a green light. You proceed through, perking along under the posted speed limit. Too late, Fuddle realizes he has a red light. He hits his brakes, leaving 70 feet of skid marks behind him as he flies into the intersection. The front of his van strikes your left rear with a mighty crash. Your arm hits the steering wheel and the $300.00 watch your spouse gave you for your last birthday is smashed. The Property Damage to your motor vehicle will be determined to be $1,700.
The police investigate at the scene. Fuddle is charged with dangerous driving: You note that this is written up in the Police Report. The ambulance takes you to the Angel Of Mercy Hospital Emergency Room, where you’re x-rayed and treated. Diagnosis: A mild to severe strain to the cervical-dorsal area which is known as a “Whiplash”-Type” of injury.
You’re eventually treated by your family physician, Ole’ Doc Comfort. (You later ask for and receive copies of all medical reports from the Angel Of Mercy and also from Doc Comfort).
As soon as possible, after the impact, you asked you son “Chip” to return to the scene of the accident and he snapped a dozen close-up photos of the skid marks plus the damages to your motor vehicle and then Fuddles van. Chip very wisely visits the police station where he purchases a copy of the report that the Cruiser Patrolmen wrote at the scene.
YOUR FINAL “SPECIAL DAMAGES” ARE AS FOLLOWS: Ambulance, Emergency Room, X-Rays, Prescription for pain, Heating Pad, Dr. Comforts bill, plus your Lost Wages. THE FINAL TOTAL OF YOUR “SPECIAL DAMAGES” COMES TO: $1,831.15.
PROPERTY DAMAGES: Cost to repair your (car - motor vehicle) $1,750.00 plus the provable replacement of your wrist watch $300.00. TOTAL PROPERTY DAMAGE LOSS: $2,050.00.
Using the “Formula” (as detailed by BASE which is found in my book AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM) you determine that the value of your Personal Injury claim falls into the 4 areas provided by “THE BASE FORMULA” and (in your particular situation) they are: THE PREMIUM VALUE $7,324.60, THE MEAN VALUE $6,408.02 THE CORE VALUE $5,493.00 and a LOW VALUE $3,680.00.
Your case has a number of positive factors that fall on your side of the evaluation ledger, such as: #1. Fred Fuddle is far from being a model citizen. #2. He was driving his vehicle much too fast, as evidenced by the skid marks Chip capture on film. #3. The police cited Fuddle for operating his van in a dangerous manner, as proved by the copy of the Police Report you now have in your possession.
Ole’ Doc Comforts report (which you have a copy of) indicates you sustained a “Whiplash-Type” injury to the cervical-dorsal area. Following Doc Comforts instructions (as written into his report) you purchased a heating pad (a copy of the bill you have for proof) which you used for 5 days to help relieve your “Pain and Suffering”. In addition to the hospital bills, you’ve also kept copies of the pain killer prescription drugs that Doc Comfort insisted you must take.
Now, enough time has passed for you to sit down with Insurance Adjuster I. M. Smart of GRANITE MOUNTAIN INSURANCE CORPORATION. Smart knows the potential of your developing more physical problems (which can be tied into the accident) is much greater because of your age. No matter which way Smart would like to slice your cake he’s aware that you went through a ton of inconvenience plus a solid period of “Pain and Suffering” which has been sustained within the confines of Doc Comfort’s written report.
As detailed in THE BASE FORMULA your Personal Injury claim positions itself in the area of THE PREMIUM VALUE. You must aim for a settlement as close to this figure as possible. PLUS the $1,750 Property Damage of your motor vehicle and also the $300 to replace your new wristwatch.
How one can and must proceed to do this (plus THE BASE FORMULA) is detailed in my third and latest book AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM (How To Evaluate And Settle Your Loss) found on the internet at http://www.caraccidentclaims.com or http://www.autoaccidentclaims.com.
DISCLAIMER: The only purpose of this article ~ THE BASE FORMULA ~ A “SETTLEMENT EXAMPLE” is to help readers understand the motor vehicle accident claim process.
Dan Baldyga makes no guarantee of any kind whatsoever, NOR to substitute for a lawyer, an insurance adjuster, or claims consultant, or the like. Where such professional help is desired it is the INDIVIDUALS RESPONSIBILITY to obtain such services.
About The Author:
Dan Baldyga worked for over 30 years as an insurance adjuster, supervisor, manager and trial assistant. Since his retirement he has written 3 highly successful “How To” Insurance Claim books. He now spends his time attempting to assist those involved in motor vehicle accident claims, so they will not be taken advantage of.
Copyright (c) 2005 By Daniel G. Baldyga. All Rights Reserved.
Dan Baldyga - Author
dbpaw@comcast.net
AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM
(How To Evaluate And Settle Your Loss)
http://www.autoaccidentclaims.com
For 30 years Dan Baldyga was a Claims Adjuster, Supervisor, Manager and also a Trial Assistant. He is now retired and spends his time attempting to assist those involved in motor vehicle accident claims so they will not be taken advantage of. Mail to:
dbpaw@comcast.net
There are ways that you can get to work that will help you
save on gas consumption for your car.
1. When driving to work avoid the peak times for rush hours.
This way you’ll use up less fuel and you’ll spend less of
you precious time sitting around in heavy traffic.
2. Try telecommuting from work if you’re in a position to do
so.
3. If you are the owner of more than one vehicle you should try
to drive the car that has the best gas mileage more often
than the one with higher gas mileage. Save the vehicle with
the lower gas mileage for those trips when you don’t want
your new vehicle damaged or don’t want to put the miles on
the odometer.
4. Find out about ride-sharing programs and carpools that are
available in your local area. By commuting to work with
others you’ll be cutting your monthly fuel costs by as much
as half. You’ll also be saving on the wear and tear of your
car. Many large cities have what is known as the HOV lane
(high occupancy vehicle) to encourage drivers to commute to
work.
5. Use the public transit service if it’s convenient for you
and available where you live. You may be able to drive your
vehicle to the bus depot and commute from there. Even though
you’re still driving your car part way to work you’ll still
notice a substantial savings when it comes to the cost of
your commute to and from work.
==========================================
You have permission to publish this article
electronically or in print, free of charge,
as long as the bylines are included.
A courtesy copy of your publication would be
appreciated. Feel free to pass the above in
its entirety to anyone you wish.
==========================================
About the Author: Celebs Buka is a syndicated
newspaper columnist and the co-author of
an amazing new ebook
“62 Ways To Save Money At The Gas Pump”
revealing How To Save Money And Conserve Gas.
By Making The Most Out Of The Fuel In Your Tank!
You can read the e-book version FREE online here:
http://www.ebiz-directory.com/gmoney2.html
© 2005-2006 Baker Masud. All rights reserved.
==========================================
There are people all over the world looking for a truck for
sale. This is great news for you if you are considering
posting your truck for sale.
However, you need to consider your truck for
sale options.
* Word of Mouth Advertising
* Newspaper Classifieds
* Online Advertising
Each of these truck for sale advertising methods has been
proven to work successfully time and time again when it
comes to selling a truck.
So let’s evaluate your truck for sale options….
When a good friend recommends a movie, aren’t you more
likely to check it out than if you just see the previews?
Well, the same rule applies to a truck for sale. If someone
that you know and respect recommends a truck for sale, you are generally more likely to give it a look, especially if
you are interested in a truck for sale.
Word of mouth advertising can be very powerful! However, it
is limited to a smaller group of people which is why you
need to consider newspaper classifieds and online
advertising.
If you have ever opened up and read the classified section
of a newspaper, you have probably seen several truck for
sale advertisements.
The reason that you see these advertisements is because they
are a great way to expose your truck for sale to several
people in your local area.
Newspaper classifieds are a great way to post your truck for
sale.
Finally, there is online advertising of your truck for sale. Online advertising gives you the opportunity to reach a huge targeted audience of people who are looking for a tr truck for sale.
It has become a very popular and effective method of
advertising when it comes to a truck for sale.
You may want to utilize one or all of the various methods of
advertising your truck for sale. Good luck!
“Dedicated to providing used truck for sale resources, parts, and accessories. Take advantage if you are considering buying or selling a used truck! We look forward to your visit.”
Truck for Sale
Reader Question: My check engine light came on the other day what should I do? Will it hurt my car if I continue to drive it?
Thanks James
Dear James,
I hear this line at least once a week. The instrument panel on most cars is absolutely cluttered with warning indicator lights and buzzers. These lights are color-coordinated so that different colors indicate the severity of the potential problem. As you start the car, all of the lights should come on, and as the computer verifies each component is working properly, the light is turned off. You should only be concerned with lights that remain on for several minutes after the car has been started. Check engine or service engine soon lights can be tricky to repair, so a little help on your part could really save the mechanic some diagnostic time, and save you some money!
Treat check engine lights-service engine soon lights, and all dash lights like traffic signals. A Red Warning light indicates an immediate danger. Pull over, turn off the car immediately and assess the problem. Symptoms that usually cause red warning lights are engine over-heating, low oil pressure, transmission over-heating, low battery voltage, and brake failure.
Red lights can also indicate a safety issue, so proceed with caution as you maneuver to stop the vehicle. Unfortunately, when the red light is illuminated the problem is at its peek. It can be a matter of seconds before permanent engine damage occurs.
Some common things to look for when a red light comes on are:
* low anti-freeze, engine oil, and transmission fluid levels
* low brake fluid
* missing belts
* faulty alternator that is not charging the battery or a bad battery
To decode check engine lights, you really need a quality repair manual like those provided at ALLDATA. They include troubleshooting procedures, Recall Information and Technical Service Bulletins. Click Here to get your manual today and find out what that check engine light really means.
A Yellow Warning light, (Usually a Service engine soon light) indicates “Proceed with caution.” The onboard computer system has indicated a potential problem and is alerting the driver. This computer system resets and re-tests all sensors and indicators each time the car is started. The computer system is capable of correcting some minor abnormalities, but if the light continues to come on after multiple car starts, it is probably sensing something that would imply a visit to the diagnostic mechanic is in order.
Some common things that may cause a yellow light (Service engine soon light) to come on, but will probably require an experienced technician to diagnose are:
* anti-lock brake systems
* safety restraint systems, such as air bags
* emissions components
* computer-related problems, such as faulty sensors
If you are driving your car and a yellow light comes on, ask yourself these questions:
1. Did you notice problems when starting the car? (slower to start than normal..etc.)
2. Have you noticed a decrease in fuel mileage recently?
3. What is the over-all running condition of the car? Is the engine misfiring or not performing like normal? Are there any new noises from under the hood? Turn off the radio and listen closely as you drive the car.
4. Do you notice any odors, such as a rotten egg smell, or see visible smoke from the tail-pipe or from under the hood?
Make sure to note the exact location and wording of the light that has been coming on, because Murphy’s Law dictates that the light will suddenly not come on when you take it in to the repair shop.
In some cars, “engine” is the more serious red light, whereas others use “check engine light,” which is a yellow caution light. If the mechanic thinks you are seeing a yellow “check engine light,” and your car is indicating a red “engine” danger light, this could be a costly mistake for both of you. Why? You could be having a serious over heating problem and the mechanic is assuming you are having a less serious caution light illuminating. The mechanic then might give you the “green light” (no pun intended) to proceed with your out of town road trip with the kids. Yikes!
Start the car, and point to the light to ensure good communication of the problem. Intermittent dash warning lights can be a pain and hard to diagnose! Diagnosing the problem in some cases will require the light to be on while the mechanic performs the diagnostic test. If the light is not on when you bring the car to the shop, you might be wasting your time and the mechanic’s.
SIDE NOTE: Keep a “running condition and dash light” log in your car to help the mechanic pin point the root of the problem. I have a customer who keeps such an accurate log of her cars’ complaints that sometimes I can diagnose the problem correctly with the help of her log and by taking her along on my initial test drive.
I can do my diagnosis usually without opening the hood to her car. This saves me time and she saves money on a diagnostic charge. This customer can also hold me to my warranty time period, because she had this particular complaint written in her log book.
Learn more about Car Repair from an honest auto mechanic. Free Auto Repair Advice. Repair your car yourself with this Online Auto Repair Manual
