Running Boards For Trucks - What You Need to Know Before You Purchase the Best Kind

Are running boards for trucks really built to provide a strong foot area you can depend upon? Do they make your truck look like a truck - rugged, tough, sturdy? Or are they a just a fashion accessory that is a fad with truck owners?

The fact is millions of pick up trucks have nerf bars and step up boards as part of the cab. Besides safety, the good thing about running boards is that they are very popular truck accessories. In the after care market, most running boards are built so that most pick up truck owners can install them easily and speedily. And, with the right combination, you can make your truck look sharp, too.

What Materials Form Running Boards?

Running boards for trucks are made with varying materials like steel, stainless steel and chrome. There are some brands made of clad aluminum and polyethylene.

The load capacity ranges anywhere from 300 to 500 pounds, so double check that you get the capacity you require.

You can choose a shiny, dull or matte finish. There are lighted running boards that have a small light that shines under the door, so that you can see the step at night.

Each material adds strength and style to your truck. The surface of each board can be smooth or rough - with an abrasive set of non-slip strips to prevent slipping. Grooved patterns drain water away from the stepping surface. You can also clear your soles of the dirt and grime off before entering, so you protect the carpet and floor mats.

Here Is What To Look For

You need to add the right size and width to match the size of your truck. If you have a one-ton truck with a four wheel rear axle, you don't want to install thin or narrow boards. Your truck would look cheap and out of balance.

No, you want an accessory that matches the character and color of your truck. In fact, a truck without running boards looks like something is missing. The cab appearance seems to be incomplete compared to trucks parked nearby.

Make sure to check out the guarantee you get when you buy your boards online. Some manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty, others have a three year warranty on mild steel products.

What are the Best Types for Trucks?

The best brands include Romik, Westin, Dee Zee, Challenger, Nasta, Gladiator, Ionic Railway and Billet running boards. Most running boards are built exactly to fit the make, model and year of your truck.

So, if you own a Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Dodge, Honda, Acura, GMC, or other make of truck, all you have to do is order the boards made for your vehicle.

Why is that important? The reason is that these boards come with custom mounting hardware that attach directly into factory-drilled holes in your truck frame. You don't have to drill holes. All you have to do is line up the parts and fasten the bolts until they are secure.

Summary

Running boards for trucks are very popular for many makes and models of trucks that provide a safe stepping surface and make your truck look sharp. When you know what to look for when you buy them, you can find discounts and deals and make sure you put the best set on your pick up truck.

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Perform A Tow Wire Job With Ease Using A Hydraulic Hoist

One of the main components of indoor crane systems is a hydraulic hoist. Unlike traditional cranes or lifts, this device relies on an oil-based piston mechanism rather than a large motorized operating system. The piston device allows the hydraulic hoist to carry much larger loads with a fairly small motor, in comparison to cranes and hoists of similar size.

Marinas and shipyards are places where you will find this kind of equipment. It helps move boats into and out of the water. Other uses for this type of hoist are for loading and unloading cargo from a boat hold onto nearby trucks. Aside from boat docks, manufacturing and warehouse operations use a hydraulic hoist as part of their indoor crane systems.

Instead of workers breaking their backs by lifting heavy loads, these hoists offer ergonomic lifting solutions for indoor industrial work environments. Indoor cranes offer an overhead mechanical advantage and allow efficient workflow without taking up too much ground space.

Investing in one of these is ideal when your factory space is difficult to maneuver around in. You can achieve heavy lifts with ease and utilize indoor space much more efficiently with indoor crane systems that incorporate hydraulic hoists.

A hydraulic hoist helps you perform a tow wire job with ease. For example, miners digging for ores and precious minerals will not have a problem lifting heavy objects. Having one of these helps you avoid hurting your workers in the process. These hoists are also used for erecting steel or other structural components on a construction site.

There are also trucks and boats that use them for small tow wire jobs. Converting a standard truck bed into a dump truck is not a problem when you have one of these at your disposal.

A small, electric motor powers one or more pistons found in the device. As they move downward, pressure is applied to the oil supply found below. Once the oil contracts to its minimum size, the pressure is then transferred to the hoisting mechanism.

When the pistons move in reverse, the hoist can lower or release objects as determined by your indoor crane systems operator. This is operated from inside an operator car cabin. It sits along the base of the support tower.

One advantage of having a hydraulic hoist perform a tow wire job is the relative distance between the motor and hoisting mechanism. Because of this distance, the machine emits less noise than a traditional crane or lift. This makes these indoor crane systems ideal for moving theater sets during intermissions. Despite their size and small motor, it still packs an incredible amount of lifting power.

There are some potential drawbacks that need looking out for. For one, hydraulic hoists do not operate as efficiently as other lifting devices. This could lower your productivity and increase some of your operating costs. Anything that is hydraulic-based is susceptible to leaks and broken oil cavity seals. Study your options carefully before deciding. A broken down system will require extensive repair and maintenance work if you do invest in one.

Alice Pollard is looking for indoor crane systems that can help him perform a tow wire job.

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Chrysler 300 Luxury Series Makes Its Debut

The Chrysler brand is a premium make, but its competition is Buick not Cadillac, Lexus or Lincoln. This means that Chrysler lacks a true luxury brand, something it hasn't had since the Imperial was its flagship sedan.

Chrysler, however, has a line of rear- and all-wheel-drive models that derives its platform from Mercedes-Benz technology. Its 300 and 300C stem from the automaker's days as part of the failed DaimlerChrysler entity, vehicles that were updated in 2011 and continue to lead the Chrysler brand.

The 300 series is as close to being a luxury car as you can get and with the introduction of the Luxury Series, this model is now the most luxurious Chrysler product ever built, even topping previous Imperial models that stood for luxury.

Here is what you'll find in the Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series:

Exterior Enhancements -- The 300's athletic, but luxurious stance receives several important exterior treatments in the Luxury Series. RWD models are equipped with 20-inch polished face wheels while AWD models are outfitted with 19-inch painted pocket aluminum wheels. Its fascia features platinum chrome accents, side mirror caps and chrome door handles. Its grille is unique to this series too and features a platinum-chrome finish with platinum chrome mesh.

Engines and Transmissions -- Choose the V-6 engine with rear-wheel-drive and this motor is paired with a ZF-licensed 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine enables the big Chrysler to attain a class-leading 31 mpg on the highway. A 5.7-liter V-8 is available too and comes paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Interior Upgrades -- How do you define luxury? Step inside the Luxury Series and a cabin full of enhancements are included. An 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Garmin navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link, an LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable color EVIC are among the features present. This model also includes a power tilt and telescoping steering column with memory settings; power-adjustable pedals with memory; a power backlight sunshade; Berber carpet floor mats featuring satin chrome lower door sills with "Chrysler" logo; dual heated and cooled cup holders; foot well lighting; LED-illuminated interior door handles and map pockets for the front and rear. Many of the standard features found in the Luxury Series are optional in other editions if available at all.

Safety Measures -- Front, side and driver's knee airbags are standard with the Luxury Series as are side curtain airbags that offer protection for outboard sitting passengers. This sedan is equipped with four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control and features active head restraints to protect occupants.

Chrysler Warranties -- If you're ever stuck, towing assistance is provided for the first 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This vehicle offers a bumper to bumper warranty for 36 months or 36,000 miles. Drivetrain and corrosion warranties have Chrysler models protected for 5 years or 100,000 miles. Extended warranties are available through your Chrysler dealership.

Cost for the well-appointed 300 Luxury Series begins at $40,145 or about $12,000 more than base models. However, this Chrysler is competitively priced with other full-size luxury sedans, offering a lower beginning price point than most.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Chrysler 300 fenders and Chrysler 300 accessories.

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How To Navigate An Auto Show

There are many people who enjoy attending the auto shows each year as the new cars are almost ready to come out. You may be one of these people who like to walk around and see many of the new makes and models that will be offered to the public. This gives you a first glance opportunity to see the cars before they are offered to the general public. This can be kind of fun to do. You may want to attend the auto show with your family. This can be a fun family event that helps you bond and enjoy each other's company. You could also find a friend or a group of friends that can attend the expo with you. Most often they have food and beverages for sale at the expos so you can enjoy a few hours of browsing the car floor then get a bite to eat and visit with your friends or family who are with you. Perhaps you are one of the people that love to go to the expo each year and you look forward to it all year. There are some things that can help make your visit to the auto show more enjoyable.

The first thing you can consider when you are going to attend an auto event is to have a plan if there are specific makes or models you wish to see. Often, there are floor plans on the websites for the car shows that can show you where each particular make and model are. This way you can make a plan to be sure and see the ones that you are most interested in first. Then if you run out of time, at least you have seen the ones you really wanted to see.

Another thing you can do to make your event more fun is to avoid the busy times. The opening weekends are typically the most crowded and should be avoided if possible. If there are too many people, you may not have as good of a time. Often, you may want to sit in the cars etc. and if there are too big of crowds, this may not be feasible for you to do. By avoiding the crowds, you can help your attendance feel better. If you can attend the expo on a weekday, you will typically have a lot less people there at the same time as you are. This can be more enjoyable and much more relaxing. You may then have time to sit in some of the cars you are interested in and really have time to check them out. Going earlier in the day can also be a good idea to avoid the big crowds.

Once you are at the show, don't rush. You can plan to go at a time when you have plenty of time to look around and enjoy yourself. If you feel rushed, you may not enjoy the event near as much. Most of the car manufacturers will have representatives there by their particular vehicles to answer questions for you and you can find out a lot of information this way. The auto show can be a great event.

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Handy Locksmith Tools for You

If you are looking for tools and equipment to be kept handy in case you lock yourself out of your car, then this article will be useful in detailing how you can help yourself without running to find a locksmith.

Numerous makes and models of cars are available today. Each of these cars has their own unique features and are designed and manufactured by a particular company. Though the basic mechanism of all cars remains similar, the functionalities of each car may be different and that is what differentiates the cars from each other. One car may give good mileage while another may have an excellent engine that gives amazing horsepower. Cars are also made in different sizes and can seat varying amounts of people. Vehicles having the ability to seat two people are ideal for couples while vans and large sized vehicles can seat an entire family or up to eight people. Engines capable of different speeds can be found in the vehicles and that helps them to be driven in different terrains like hilly or straight lanes.

New age cars are generally available in different colors and the more famous are the metallic shades one which give the body of the car a glistening appearance. Seats fitted into modern vehicles are extremely comfortable and are usually easy to clean and maintain. While car thefts were a common occurrence a few decades ago, most modern cars have an alarm system and locking mechanism that keeps them safe from meddlers. Using radio waves as the mode of transmission, the keyless remote mechanism works with a central fob that acts as a main hub for receiving signals. By clicking a button on the keyless remote all doors of the car can be locked to ensure safety. Since radio waves are used to transmit signals, cars can be locked from even several feet away.

Only radio waves of a particular frequency are used to send signals across and this too is encrypted in order to ensure that not everyone can transmit signals to open the car doors. Transponder keys use a similar technology and are connected to the engine or the car doors. They do not have groves like traditional keys and unlocking occurs only when the signals are sent by a particular key. It is thus no longer easy to open locks on cars with the help of a pin or tools like a widget. An alarm is triggered when the car door is forcibly opened or the car is meddled with. Beeping accompanied with blaring of the horn is usually the alarm and helps in alerting the owner and scaring thieves and meddlers away.

In case you get locked out of your own car or forget the remote inside the car or loose or misplace the car remote, you may have to get hold of a locksmith to help you open the door. Instead you could have tools like decoders handy which will help in decoding the signal to your car and open it for you. These types of locksmith tools can easily be carried around and thereby help one in becoming self sufficient.

This writer of this article is currently associated with Transponder Island, a prominent supplier of remote keys for various car models and locksmith supply.

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Information About Car Testing

What is the speediest Indian across the world doing when he's not burning rubber on Formula 1 tracks? No, he does not go down the freeway with a variety of chicks in the back seat. As a substitute, Narain Karthikeyan races for the Hispania Racing Team on the F1 circuit, testing vehicles for Tata Motors. The road hog who has Tata conspicuously imprinted on his attire and his helmet - the team has been a reliable sponsor since that time Narain was a test driver with the Williams F1 group four years move - isn't the only auto racer who tests vehicles. Karun Chandhok, a reserve driver and Gaurav Gill, one of Asia's top rallyists for Team Lotus in F1, also support manufacturers to evaluate the roadworthiness of their super-performance models.

Gill has tested high-end vehicles including the Audi R8, the Porsche Panamera, the Porsche Cayenne and the Mercedes AMG. He says: "It is a normal development to go into testing cars, especially in the lean season." According to the collection, the amount of races in a year varies between 15 and 25. For example, 2011 F1 calendar got 19 competitions. "So testing relies on how much time is usually managed between races, yet yes the vast majority of it takes place throughout the short season," says Narain who had experienced over 6,000 kilometers of testing. Testing may seem like fun and enjoyable all the way, but it is extremely tough work too.

Not merely does one have to be a good driver, but one needs to be technically skilled as well. Narain points out that technician rely on the tester's feedback to make developmental adjustments to a car. The feedback has to be precise and specific as the producer will accordingly change the assembly line. Incorrect inputs can lead to wastages and cost rises. "Therefore, it is essential to get it correct, every single time," says Narain. "Occasionally a test procedure needs to be repeated several times just to be certain of one's interpretation," he adds. The occupation of car testing is not main steady stream, not yet. Car companies in India still do not get car testers.

There are certainly not any professional institutes that educate students this craft. Even so, with numerous new cars being released in India, the potential for vehicle testers is big. Car testers have an inborn interest in cars; they can easily tell minute distinctions in a car's features and correlate them to a specific mechanical part that is affecting the car's behavior. It is not by chance that aggressive racing drivers become good road testers. Car testers have plenty of experience in coping with different varieties of weather conditions, road surfaces and driving styles.

This in return puts them competent to supply inputs in areas like wet weather managing, and when evaluating the ride quality over bumpy patches of road. A good car tester can immediately say whether the body kit and engine are calibrated well due to their experience and interface with the vehicles. The Delhi-dependent rallyist has played a significant part in the improvement of the Mitsubishi EVO 10 rally car.

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How To Properly Winterize Your Vehicle

Winter has arrived in full force, and if you haven't already winterized your vehicle then you should do so quick! Changes in weather and climate don't just affect people and animals, they also affect vehicles and can cause your vehicles to have various issues if you don't prepare them properly. Here are some of the things that you can do to make sure that your vehicle is properly winterized so that you can depend on it even during the coldest winter days and nights.

First, make sure that you properly take care of your engine oil and use the right oil for the cold conditions. If you live in areas that get extremely cold in the wintertime (below freezing), then you will probably want to use engine oil that is thinner than your regular oil so that it won't clump and freeze as easily. If you have any doubts about the type of oil that you should be using, talk to your local auto shop or refer to your vehicle manual so that you choose the right engine oil for the winter.

Second, make sure that you check your engine coolant and use a coolant that contains ethylene glycol so that your engine will be properly protected. Engine coolant isn't just for cooling engines down on hot days, but it is also very important for protecting your engine from corrosion, so it is important to keep your coolant filled up during the winter months as well.

Third, make sure you have your battery inspected before the coldest weather hits, so that you will know whether or not it can last through the winter. If your battery is already having issues then it is not likely to make it through the winter, but an expert should be able to read your battery's voltage and let you know if it is time to purchase a new battery or not. When purchasing a new battery, make sure that you check the manufacturing date and try not to ever purchase a battery that was manufactured more than six months ago. This will help to ensure that you get the longest battery life possible when you purchase a new battery.

Fourth, if you have a vehicle that isn't ideal for snowy conditions, or if you just want to have more traction and stability in the snow, then you should consider purchasing a set of quality snow tires or all-season tires for the winter. Snow tires give your vehicle extra traction so that it is less likely to slip in slush or ice, and you can even purchase snow tires with studs if you live in the back country or at the top of slippery hills. All-season tires are also an excellent choice because they can be used both in the summer and the winter and give your vehicle some extra traction so that you can get to work more easily and safely in the snow.

Finally, you should also make sure that your windshield wipers are working properly and not missing any spots on your windshield, and always carry an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you become stranded in the snow. As long as you are prepared you will be able to minimize your chances of having vehicle problems this winter season.

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A Closer Look at IIHS Safety Ratings

Buying a new car means finding out what it comes equipped with including safety equipment. These days, most new cars offer a suite of airbags, traction and stability control, and four-wheel antilock brakes. Some vehicles offer important safety enhancements including a rear view backup camera, collision avoidance and active head restraints.

What every car shopper should understand before buying a car is how well this vehicle performs in crash testing. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates most vehicles and that information will not only tell you how safe a car is, but give you a good idea on its insurance costs. Indeed, those vehicles that score highest in IIHS testing also offer reduced insurance premiums.

Lets take a look at the four categories the IIHS uses to determine a passenger vehicle's crashworthiness:

Frontal offset -- Head on collisions are oftentimes deadly, thus this test can determine whether a vehicle's front crumple zones and airbags will help you survive an accident. Even the smallest models such as the Fiat 500 and Toyota Yaris perform well in these tests.

Side impact -- If you're t-boned in an accident, your chances of survival decrease as speeds increase. Many cars employ rigid steel beams in doors and offers side impact and side curtain airbags to provide an extra measure of protection. Many compact cars including the Mazda 3, Nissan's Leaf and the Chevrolet Cruze have measured up to the IIHS' requirements.

Roof strength -- Rollover accidents can be deadly, more so with high-profile vehicles such as SUVs. Roof strengthening measures undertaken by manufacturers have made roof pillars stronger even for some large models such as the Buick Enclave and Ford F-150. Stability control keeps these vehicles planted, equipment required by the IIHS for 2012 models.

Rear crash protection/head restraint -- Get hit in the rear and you may survive the accident, but have whiplash injuries. Many cars employ rear crumble zones and some come with active head restraints, the latter offering another measure of support in such accidents. Volvo models are among those big on such safety measures as are certain Cadillac, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai and Volkswagen vehicles.

The IIHS assigns Good, Acceptable, Marginal and Poor ratings for each test area. For any vehicle that gets four "good" marks, the IIHS awards it with its "Top Safety Pick" award. For the 2012 model year 115 vehicles received the top rating the most ever. So, before you buy know the rating and call your insurance agent to find out what rate you'll pay before you make a purchase. If your rate is higher than you expect, it could be that she hasn't received the latest IIHS ratings as posted to IIHS.org.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Chrysler PT Cruiser hoods and Chrysler PT Cruiser scoops.

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Where to Get Cash for Junk Cars

The wide majority of consumers will undoubtedly find at some point in time the somewhat less than proud owners of the mangled remains of a formerly prized possession, now referred to as simply a junk car. What to do with it and how to get the last drop of their investment out of it might seem a bit daunting at first, but with a little ingenuity and legwork, even the most demolished of vehicles can be turned into a tidy sum of money. There are a few ways to pocket that cash and move onto the next one. All it takes is the motivation to do so and an examination of what that pile of junk in your backyard in reality represents.

Any vehicle, unless completely ravaged by fire, will have some parts that someone somewhere would love to get at a bargain price. Once again, the Internet raises its metaphorical hand and says "try me". At the top of my options for some reason Craigslist seems to be my go to place. Offering parts that can be salvaged and sold for a fraction of their replacement costs oftentimes can take as little as a few days before the phone calls start coming in. A visit to eBay's want ads can also be well worth your time and effort. No matter how common or seemingly worthless the remaining salvageable parts to your "junker" might seem, there is always might be someone out there who will take it off your hands at a bargain price. Keep in mind that the more locally you focus your search the more profit it involves. Trying to ship a complete rear passenger door 1500 miles away is not going to result in much, if any, cash in hand.

Probably the easiest and most direct route would be to contact a local junk dealer or automobile salvage yard and tell them exactly what you have and want to do with it. Granted you won't be offered as much as a package price as you might parting it out piece by piece, but there is much to be said about letting someone else do all of the labor required to disassemble the corpse of your former ride and either re-selling it or using it themselves.

For my money and time, a call to a reputable auto salvage yard is the first option on the list. It is the easiest solution to where to get cash for junk cars.

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Where to Find the Best Winter Car Covers

The winter weather can do a lot of damage to your car if you don't protect it properly. Rain, snow and even heavy wind can damage paint, tires and hub caps. The best way to protect your car is with a car cover. But with so many companies out there making them, where do you get the best one?

Good quality car protectors can be expensive, so you want to make sure you get the most out of your money. Many people try to find ways to save by getting used car covers, only to find that they are damaged, which defeats its own purpose. A cover that is torn or one whose material is worn out will not do the best job in protecting your car. Heavy winds or rain can cause part or all of it to come off, exposing your car to the extreme weather which can damage it.

Sure, you may find something that looks good on a site like Craigslist or eBay that is cheaper and looks like it will be fine, but you may actually have to spend more money later to replace not only the used car cover, but also to repair the damage that may be done to your car. Winter is an especially important time to make sure your car has the protection it needs. Something that doesn't remain on sturdy or has holes can cause damage to your car.

You can also find covers in retail stores like Best Buy, Walmart or Target, but the prices at those places may not be the best deals you can get. Walmart and Target for example will have very inexpensive car covers for around $30.00, but the quality will be lacking. You can go to Best Buy and find better quality covers for your car, but the prices are usually marked up.

What I've found to be the best places to buy car covers, especially for the winter, is through an online wholesaler. Many times you can find retailers that sell car covers at wholesale prices, but they are still excellent products that are perfectly dependable for your car. I also feel much more calm and able to make a better decision about my purchase when I'm doing it at home on my computer, rather than being persuaded by salespeople, and feeling the anxiety of all the different options. This way, you can sit back, relax, and browse through your options.

Don't let your car fall victim to the weather. Protect your car with a car cover you can depend on. Go to thecarcover.com for car covers and other car accessories.

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Smartphone Apps for Drivers

Ok, so everyone knows that when you are on the road you should only be focused on driving. Even though this is what you should be doing, not everyone follows the rules. Well, there's an app for that. There are so many apps out there for drivers, of course they are all meant to be used when the car has come to a complete parked state. Some of these apps can be helpful if you have a wreck or your car breaks down, and some help give you directions and ways out of traffic jams. Depending on how often you drive and what your needs as a driver are, there are probably many different apps you can use to help make your drive safe and as stress free as possible.

A few of these apps actually make sure you are as safe as you can be. One of them is called iZup. This app determines if you are driving or not by using GPS and blocks you from answering text messages that you may receive while driving. It comes with three different auto response messages you can use if you do get a message. Sadly, this app is only available for the Android Market and doesn't include iPhones or BlackBerrys. Like the iZup app, the Otter app also enables the use of text messaging by determine if you are driving or not. It also allows you to pick different automatic responses to help you keep your eye on the road and not worry about your phone. This app is available for several different types of smartphones.

In the event of having a wreck or a break down, there may be an app out there to help you get moving and back on the road. iWrecked is a great app for the iPhone, in case you do wreck. It has a list of things you need to do after being in an accident like taking photos, getting a hold of your insurance company, exchanging insurance info and anything else you may need to do. The app can also locate the local police station that is nearest you, dial 911, call a cab, or a tow-truck service. iWrecked is a free app for the iPhone. There are also apps like aCar that helps remind you when your car is up for maintenance or inspection, or RepairPal that will help you find repair shops and will even help you find a tow-truck service in the event you break down.

There are also some apps to help you and your car to be more efficient. The Cheap Gas! Smartphone app can determine the gas prices of the gas stations that are by you or are in a certain zip code so you can get the cheapest gas. Beat the Traffic app is a great app for people with long commutes, or who just want to, well, beat the traffic. It scans all of the possible routes you can take to get to your destination, and gives you alternate route suggestions if there is traffic or congestion on your route. For those of you who not only want to be efficient, but also want to be green, the GreenMeter app may be perfect for you. It monitors your driving then shows you your car's carbon emissions, fuel cost, and mpg.

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7 Reasons to Choose the 2009 Dodge Challenger for Real Power and Performance

The 2009 Dodge Challenger represents the perfect marriage of timeless American muscle car styling with today's automotive technology. The result is a roadster that conveys a true image of toughness and power, while negotiating roads with a finesse and level of comfort that is the equal of any luxury vehicle that is offered for many times its reasonable price. Seven main reasons stand out among the many factors that make the 2009 Dodge Challenger a truly sporty and truly practical driving machine:

1) Styling

The Dodge Challenger for 2009 gets noticed - and it gets respect. Its muscularly striking presence stands out among practically any other vehicles with which it shares city, country, or highway roads. The Challenger is a reminder of the best of America's automotive heyday, when designers blended sporty lines with solid materials to create the great American muscle cars.

2) Performance

The 2009 Dodge Challenger boasts a level of performance that matches its formidable silhouette. Its most advanced power plant option is a ferocious 425-horsepower 6.1 liter V8 Hemi engine that accelerates from zero to 60 mph in a mere five-and-a-half seconds. Yet, the suspension and transmission of the Challenger ensure nimble turning and a smooth ride. Indeed, while the Challenger is wild enough for negotiating high-speed highways and more, it is just as much at home on city or suburban streets.

3) Comfort

Drivers and passengers feel the exhilaration of high-speed highway driving, but not the bumps of driving through pothole-pocked city streets. In addition, seating is extremely comfortable even for larger drivers and passengers, thanks to a telescoping steering wheel and generously sized seats.

4) Versatility

While the 2009 Dodge Challenger is just perfect for enjoying a long drive to a favorite vacation spot, it is just as suitable for a driver who heads for the freeway in order to hit the electronics store or home improvement center sales and return with a big load of goods. Its trunk is as large as that of any typical family vehicle, and its folding rear seat adds to the available storage space.

5) Safety

The 2009 Dodge Challenger's commitment to practicality and versatility includes attention to safety features. Its brakes and tires allow for fast, safe stopping. It achieved the highest possible marks in side, front and rollover crash protection for front and rear passengers alike. Front and side airbags are bolstered by advanced safety features such as traction control.

6) Quality

The materials used in the construction of the 2009 Dodge Challenger are of the highest quality. Its interior and exterior finish show an appreciation for detail. It shares a base with Chrysler's luxury sedans, which are renowned for their craftsmanship.

7) Collectability

The 2009 Dodge Challenger is a design and performance classic. It is already appreciated by collectors, and its value will only increase as it continues to attract a loyal and growing base of fans. This car is an investment that can be enjoyed on a regular basis, thanks to its practicality and toughness.

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The 2009 Dodge Caliber: Is It A Car That Lasts

The 2009 Dodge Caliber is an inexpensive and reliable vehicle that is built to last. Its low price makes it a great investment, as it has the strength and durability necessary to provide years of smooth performance. It is also equipped with standard features that make driving in it, or even riding in it as a passenger, an enjoyable experience. Here are seven reasons to invest in a 2009 Dodge Caliber:

1) Convenience

The Caliber is a classic everyday car, with a hatchback style that makes it easy to load and unload. It is perfect for everything from regular supermarket runs to picking up everything necessary for a major do-it-yourself project. The 2009 Dodge Caliber has a cargo capacity of 48 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, and it has plenty of room for packages even when the seats are up.

2) Safety

The Dodge Caliber is a champion when it comes to head-on collision safety. It received the highest possible ratings and scored best in government test results. All Caliber models for 2009 include a full complement of air bags, including front air bags, side-curtain air bags and a driver-side front knee blocking air bag.

3) Design

As practical and reliable a car as the 2009 Dodge Caliber is, it still manages to present an exterior design that stands out in a crowd. The design conveys the rugged reliability that lies beneath the eye-catching exterior.

4) Accessories

Plenty of great accessories are included in all versions of the Dodge Caliber for 2009. Some of the highlights of the accessory packages include a fold-flat front passenger seat that is standard in all models, a six-CD changer with Boston Acoustics speakers in fully-loaded models, and even a 115-volt AC outlet in the mid-range and upper trim package models.

5) Economy

This car is inexpensive to purchase, and inexpensive to keep running as well. Its fuel economy ratings are 19 MPG in the city, 27 MPG on the highway and 22 MPG combined for the feature-packed SRT4 and its 285-horsepower engine, and 24 MPG city, 30 MPG highway and 27 MPG for models that are based on the standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine.

6) Quiet Comfort

The 2009 Caliber introduced noise-reduction technology to the design of this classic Dodge model. It efficiently insulates occupants from the gritty noise of bumpy city roads as well as from the whoosh of the highway.

7) Versatility

The Dodge Caliber is an everyday car, but it can adapt itself to special needs and occasions, ranging from a visit to a summer cabin on an unpaved country road to a stint as a pick-up and delivery vehicle for tailgate party supplies.

Buying a well-maintained 2009 Dodge Caliber is a great way to get a car that will remain economical to run and reliable to operate over the long haul. It's classic, yet original, design, makes it a car that will always gain attention for its appearance, and its practicality, fuel economy and comfort features make it a pleasure to drive.

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Getting Your Vehicle Prepared For the Cold Snap

The time to fit winter tyres is when the temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius - it's important to make sure that you don't wait until snow is on the ground to sort out your tyres. In no circumstances should you be keeping your summer tyres on over the winter period as this could potentially put you in a lot of danger.

A lot of people do not know what to do with their summer tyres once they have taken them off in preparation for fitting winter tyres. It's important to make sure that prior to storing your tyres away, you give them a good clean and ensure that they're dirt free; you can do this by simply using water - you should make sure that your tyres are completely dry before putting them away too. Also, another point to remember is that you can either hang or stack them; if you decide on stacking them, then the tyres can be placed on top of each other. Any materials such as chemicals, sharp items or petroleum products can prove damaging for the tyres.

If you're keen to improve your safety on the winter roads (they can become very dangerous in extreme weather!) then your best option is to ensure that your vehicle has suitable tyres fitted and that they're going to work well with the climate that they're being used in. It's becoming more common for people to realise the benefits of having winter tyres and more and more people are choosing to recommend them to their friends. Everybody wants to improve their car's performance and safety, especially at times in the year where you need to pay close attention. You may have spotted that there are a lot of warnings out about driving safely in winter and there are currently lots of advents on the television that are promoting this as well.

Your vehicle handbook has a great deal of information stored inside it including size options for wheels, often you'll find that your handbook will advise you to choose smaller wheels over winter as they'll help to keep your vehicle safe.

Making certain that you're fitting the correct tyres to suit roads and weather conditions is imperative; you must make sure that you've got the right type of winter tyres. You should also try to drive more safely throughout the winter months by leaving longer lengths of times for journeys and increasing the distance you leave from the car in front.

If you want to find out more about winter tyres then you should research winter tyres on the internet.

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All Home Mechanics Should Possess an OBD2 Scanner

The prices associated with everything that we do today seem to only increase and never decrease. If you are looking for a way to save yourself some money, then you might want to consider getting a OBD2 scanner. This instrument is exactly the same type of tool that a normal garage mechanic uses to diagnose what it wrong with a car.

They are very simple to use, all you do is plug it into the connection that comes with every new car today. It will then check out your automobile, and if it detects anything wrong it will let you know in the form of a code. An instruction manual comes with an OBD2 scanner that will let you know what the code stands for.

If that all sound fantastic, but you don't know how to fix anything on your car, even if you did know what was wrong with it, there is a solution to that dilemma also. Almost every auto parts supply store today carries repair manuals written in easy to read language for the novice. While certain repairs like rebuilding an engine or changing a head gasket are going to be too difficult for most people, there are certainly other smaller jobs that you can do.

All of us are fully aware of the fact that once a car loses its warranty, its repair bills can be crippling to a family's monthly budget. So, if you are relatively skilled with your hands, or do not mind taking the time to learn, an OBD2 scanner can be a huge money saver and greatly extend the life of a car.

Some of the items that an OBD2 scanner will let you know is wrong with your car are the following; if you are low on a particular fluid like oil or antifreeze, if your car needs a tune up, if the timing belt needs to be replaced, if your brakes need to be repaired, or if some of your LED car lights are out.

Do you have any idea what an auto dealership will charge you to make any of those minor repairs? If you happen to be reading this article, more than likely you do know, and it is quite a bit of money. Once an OBD2 scanner lets you know what is wrong, all you will need to do is to read the repair manual that you obtained, and more than likely you will be able to save yourself at least 75% off the normal price of having an auto dealer or some other shop repair your car for you.

Are these types of auto repairs going to be the easiest thing that you have ever finished in your life, if you have never done this type of work before? Probably not, but then again, think about all of the personal satisfaction that you will get when you save yourself a ton of money repairing your very own automobile. If you have not thought about using an OBD2 scanner before, hopefully you will now consider acquiring one.

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What Are The Seven Reasons to Buy the 2009 Dodge Avenger?

The 2009 Dodge Avenger is a fine choice for a connoisseur of automotive style and image who must also enjoy the benefits of a versatile family and commuter sedan. Here are seven reasons why the 2009 Dodge Avenger is a top choice in its class:

1) Inner and Outer Space

The 2009 Dodge Avenger is nothing if not spacious. Its muscular, sporty exterior design gives it the look and image of a much larger car, and its interior proportions truly are generous. Its roomy back seat is particularly suited to family driving.

2) Safety

This car was rated tops in all factors related to safety by both government and private ratings agencies. It features anti-lock brakes as well as front and side-curtain airbags. Its crash-test results were among the best for cars in its class.

3) Styling

Respect is what comes to mind when describing the tough styling of the Dodge Avenger for 2009. It brings back the era of the great American muscle cars, that garnered respect from drivers and onlookers alike as they cruised across American freeways and byways.

4) Features

The trim packages available for the 2009 Dodge Avenger present a great range of additional features and options for comfort and convenience. These include everything from a heated and cooled cup-holder to heated cloth seats and remote starting capability. The more advanced trim packages include desirable amenities such as audiophile sound systems and heated side mirrors.

5) Fuel Economy and Performance

The 2009 Dodge Avenger goes from zero to 60 miles per hour in 7.7 seconds when equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 and its accompanying six-speed automatic transmission. Yet, that powerful engine provides 16 miles per gallon in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for a combined EPA gas mileage rating of 20 MPG. The standard inline-four cylinder engine is rated at 21 MPG in the city, 30 MPG on the highway and 24 MPG combined.

6) The Ride

While one might expect a muscular-looking car like this one to be a bit rough around the edges as far as handling is concerned, the opposite is true. Standard models of the Dodge Avenger for 2009 are noted for their quiet ride, which is improved even further in the advanced R/T model with its more finely tuned suspension. The Avenger truly is a tough muscle car on the outside and a comfortable family car on the inside.

7) The Price

Today, used 2009 Avengers are available at very reasonable prices. There are plenty of standard models, as well as models with the SXT and R/T trim packages, available for sale across America.

The 2009 Dodge Avenger is a perfect choice for style enthusiasts who value the safety and practicality of a family sedan under the tough-looking skin of a muscle car. It is economical to purchase as well as to own, and it provides a comfortable ride that is ideal for family and routine driving. Its added features enhance both the driving and passenger experiences.

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It's Time to Get '12' On Your Number Plate

The 5th Day of December was an important one in the personalised number plate business. Why I hear you ask? I'll tell you.

It was when the next series of numbers - 12 - were released.

The formation of the '12' numbers has caused a lot of excitement within the personalised number plate world. As is often the case with number plates, you can substitute numbers for letters and letters for numbers to spell a word.

'12' is the ideal substitute for R.

Now you can have any word that has a 'R' in it. There are actually over 7.5 million combinations to choose from. That's a whopping number and in this article, we couldn't cover that amount of words. But here are a few to get your creative juices flowing. I've broken them into a number of categories so you can pick and choose your favourite.

Businesses

Personalised number plates are a great way to promote your business offline. With so many businesses focused on building their business online, you can easily differentiate yourself with a plate that promotes your business. Above all, it creates interest and you never know when someone is looking for your services.
AG12 CUL for all things agriculturalFA12 MNG - for farmers of all typesBA12 BER - for all the barbers out thereHA12 CUT - for all the hairdressers out thereBA12 TWO - for any combination of three letters to spell out your Bar

Names

Having your name on your name plate is the epitome of personalised number plates. Think of names and surnames and don't forget nicknames.
GO12 DON
If you have the same firstname as the great chef Mr Ramsey, treat yourself to your name.
HA12 PER
Victoria & David could solve their Christmas present worries this year by buying their little daughter a personalised name plate. Also works if your surname is Harper.
DE12 DRE
The much loved character in Coronation Street - Mrs Barlow - could get her own number plate. The Irish name Deirdre comes to life beautifully using the '12' registration combination.
CA12 ROT
Don't forget nicknames. If you have red hair or love rabbits, how can you resist a nameplate such as this one?

Hobbies

Personalised number plates can show the world how you love to spend your time.
GO12 DON
If a G&T is your favourite tipple, then how perfect is this nameplate?
PO12 KER
If you breed pigs or love a bit of bacon for your breakfast, this is an ideal name plate for you.
AR12 OWS
If you're in the TA, then this could be for you. Alternatively if you like a bit of Archery, then this is perfect as well.

All vehicles bought on or after 1st March, 2012 will have a '12' plate. Grab yours now before it's too late. The applicability of '12' to words in the English language will put many combinations in much demand.

Jayne Henry of Speedy Registrations Ltd - speedyreg.co.uk. Speedy Registrations have been supplying number plates to the public since 1984. Based in Northern Ireland we also specialise in private number plates. They aim to provide a choice of personalised number plates to meet all requirements; and pride ourselves in our highly competitive prices, matched equally by our professional customer care service. Every transfer is conducted in strict accordance with DVLA regulations covering number plates.
For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Jayne Henry
Tel(DDI): 02866 387 124
E-mail: sales@speedyreg.co.uk

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Choosing The Right Kind of Tires For Your Car

What would a car be without tires? You could have the best engine and the greatest transmission but all of that would mean nothing if you didn't have tires. Your car would just sit there, as pretty as it is. It would not be drive-able. That is why tires on a car are so important. With the advancement in tires today, you can actually buy a pair of tires that will transform your mediocre car into a dream on the road. But the advancement in tire technology is so great these days, that it can also be intimidating and confusing. Which ones are right for your car?

When it comes time to replace the tires on your car, you can do a couple of things. You can find the same make and size as the ones that came on your car when you bought it, or you can go for an upgrade if you feel your car needs it. You may also be considering changing the wheels. While some people like to put new wheels on the same old tire, it may be a good idea to get new tires and wheels together.

There are many things to consider when purchasing new tires for your car. First, think about what kind of driving you do and what your needs are when it comes to tires. Do you drive in wet weather conditions often? Do you drive mostly on the freeway or just around town? How much driving do you really do? These are some questions you may be asked by a salesperson helping you buy tires. If you do live in an area where weather is a factor, you may want to look at getting all season tires. Especially if you live in climates where it snows often such as Montana or Utah, it would be a good idea to have snow tires that you can swap out for standard tires in the summer months. Consider the speed rating on the tires. You may not need a tire that is made for speeds over 150 miles per hour. Most cars on the road have a V rating and that is more than enough speed rating for most cars. Unless you have a car that can go over 150 mph, you don't need anything higher than a V. Tires with higher speed ratings will cost you more and won't last as long because the tire is made of softer material. The tread will have a shorter life with higher speed rated tires.

When it comes to ride quality, a low profile tire such as a 40 or 50 series can look great on your car but your tires will take more of a beating when you drive or bumps or potholes. It's best to stick with a 55 or 60. Tires can also make noise than others depending on their tread design. If you drive a lot on the highways, you may want to consider the noise factor but for driving around town, you won't notice the noise much. A tire salesperson can tell you which tires are quieter than others and can recommend the best ones.

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Best Marine Battery: Lead Acid, AGM, Gel Cell - Prices, Statistics, Characteristics

The best marine battery is the one that will meet your needs, last as long as you own your boat, and that you got at an acceptable price. Marine batteries are a cross between car batteries with their high cranking amps (short bursts of high power) and deep cycle batteries used on golf carts, trolling motors, and other devices designed for continuous use. Good marine batteries have high cranking amps (which the marine industry calls marine cranking amp's) to get the motor started but they also have to be able to run continuously for several hours like a deep cycle battery does. There are three battery types that you need to consider before making a purchase. First is lead acid (also called flooded), AGM, and gel cell. Gel cell batteries are modified lead acid batteries with a gelling agent added to turn the battery acid into a gel. These batteries take a recharge very slowly. AGM batteries recharge very quickly, are sealed and leakproof and can take a lot of abuse. Lead acid batteries can also be sealed and made maintenance-free. Time to recharge a lead acid battery is between the gel cell and the AGM.

You also need to be aware of the reserve capacity rating (how long you can drain the battery). Higher is better. You also will want to look at the CCA rating which stands for cold cranking amp rating. Higher is better. Also the higher the marine cranking amp rating the better. Another vital statistic is the pulse cranking amp rating which measures the starting amperage of the engine

Deep cycle marine batteries are the ones that are designed for continuous use for long periods of time. But they still have to have enough cranking amperage to get the motor started. All three types of marine batteries (lead acid, AGM, gel cell) can be deep cycle but more people favor AGM and lead acid than gel cell. When you look at the pricing for marine batteries you will see a wide range, from around $100 to as high as $750 per battery. The vital statistics above will help you sort out the differences between the low end and the high end products. Also there are several online calculators that will help you figure out the battery size you need. You simply enter the load voltage, the load amperage, and the inverter efficiency rating. This will help you figure out the size marine battery that you need to best meet your application.

Because a Marine battery is a specialized type of application the worst thing you could possibly do is to buy a car battery and think you would be happy. On our website http://www.bestmarinebattery.net/ we have several more pages of analysis that we take you through so you can determine which is the best battery for you depending upon your application. Come see us at http://www.bestmarinebattery.com/

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Car Cleaning "Must Haves"

How often do you clean your car? To retain your car's value, it is recommended that you wash your car at least once a week. Doing so ensures that you remove any unwanted dirt and debris that can ruin your paint job if left sitting on your car over time. You will also feel good knowing that your car looks the best that it can possibly look, plus a good clean once a week will help to maintain the value of your vehicle. The following are a few car cleaning "must haves" that you need to have before you tackle the challenge of washing your car.

· Specialty car cleaning shampoo

The shampoo that you choose to clean your car with can make all the difference in how long your paint job lasts. A good shampoo provides ultimate protection against the normal wear and tear of your car. Never use any household soaps such as dish washing liquid to clean your vehicle. This can ruin the paint job and cause the plastic surfaces of your car to begin to fade.

· The right sponge or mitt

When cleaning your vehicle you want to ensure that you have the right sponge or mitt. A mitt made of sheepskin is the best choice for getting rid of unwanted dirt on the surface of the bodywork.

· A Towel for drying

Air drying your car will only lead to spots. A drying towel made of micro fiber or sheep chamois will help you get rid of the excess water on your car after you have washed it thoroughly. Dry the vehicle immediately after you wash it for the best results.

· A fresh water supply

Of course, one of the main things you need when washing your vehicle is water. Be sure that the water you choose to wash your car in is clean. Dirty water will damage the paint on your vehicle. Don't wash your vehicle with water that is used to wash the tires and rims. Have separate buckets for each. Washing from the same bucket will result in tiny scratches.

Use the list of car cleaning "must haves" when making the decision on which products to choose for your car. From specialist car cleaning shampoo to the perfect towel for drying, having the right car washing products will ensure that you car is taken care of. Which car cleaning products will you add to your collection for cleaning and maintaining your car?

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