How Servicing a Hybrid Is Different Than a Traditional Vehicle

by Anica Oaks on 2016/04/22 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on How Servicing a Hybrid Is Different Than a Traditional Vehicle

Hybrid automobiles have experienced a dramatic rise in popularity over the past decade. Although today’s hybrid vehicles look virtually identical to traditional cars, they have a more sophisticated drivetrain. Here are some of the main differences when it comes to serving a hybrid car.

Longer-Lasting Brake Pads

The majority of modern hybrids feature regenerative braking technology. When activating the brakes, the electric motor engages into what is called reverse mode, which uses the kinetic energy of a hybrid vehicle’s braking system to recharge the car’s batteries. This means that significantly less wear and tear is placed upon the brake pads, and you will have an additional source of electricity to charge your battery.

Hybrid cars also have a backup system of friction brakes just in case the regenerative brakes don’t provide enough stopping power. Hybrid owners will not need to replace their brake pads nearly as often. However, the braking system still should be inspected at least twice a year by a licensed professional who knows how to work with hybrid braking systems.

Battery Replacement

Unlike a traditional automobile, a hybrid vehicle implements the use of a small electric engine and a battery pack. While the electric motor requires very little attention, the battery pack may fail after about 100,000 miles. Luckily, replacement batteries can now be purchased at a specialty automotive parts store. The battery is engineered with a complex wiring system, so the best approach is to allow an Arnold Motor Supply professional or one in your area to perform the installation. Keep in mind that some hybrid batteries also have an air filter that must be replaced, though in the long run these vehicles will require decidedly less maintenance.

Extended Oil Change Intervals

Hybrid engines are designed to perform efficiently. Because of the electric motor’s assistance, the gas engine does not have to work as hard. Although the engine will definitely require an oil change, the interval will be much longer than normal. In fact, you can safely drive 10,000 miles between each oil change. If the oil needs to be changed, the vehicle’s oil life monitor will give you a prompt service warning.

Requires a Skilled Mechanic

Hybrid engines are a bit more complex than the typical gas engine. Unless you are a highly trained automotive technician, you may not be able to perform all of the recommended maintenance. To protect the various components from excess heat, hybrids are designed with multiple cooling systems. While regular vehicles use an alternator, a hybrid is equipped with a special AC-DC converter. Not only are some of the tasks complicated, but they are also quite dangerous. Mechanics must use an extra degree of caution when working around electrical parts.

As you can see, a hybrid vehicle has a lot of differences underneath the surface. The good news is that a hybrid is not much noticeably more expensive to maintain in the long run.

Optimizing Vehicle Fleet Assets through Upstream Re-marketing

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/04/20 in Auto Leasing with Comments Off on Optimizing Vehicle Fleet Assets through Upstream Re-marketing

It is every company’s nightmare having idle vehicles in their corporate pool areas. For almost every business, this means losing money, which is certainly not a trait of a successful and prosperous commercial enterprise. Idle vehicles are not only those sitting around and waiting for a driver, but also those old and withdrawn ones waiting to be re-marketed. Vehicles which are no longer in service still remain in the company’s lot, costing the business both money and valuable space. One of the best ways to optimize your vehicle fleet is through upstream re-marketing, and here is how to get the job done.

Maximize fleet assets with pre-marketing

With upstream re-marketing, every company can make the most out of their aged fleet and used cars right before the time comes for them to be dispatched. What this actually means is that in order to be productive and save money in the process, a company should always work on dispatching the old and aged vehicles before the replacement arrives. Waiting for the last minute to do it can result in severe negative consequences. By eliminating their days to replace or sell, companies can benefit and thus generate savings in depreciation, interim interest and other costs. Stories about successful vehicle re-marketing are still being told, and it is a business that will always exist as long as there is a vehicle fleet.

Every fleet has its own solution

Each company has a different approach when it comes to upstream re-marketing The most important factor for each company is finding out what they are trying to accomplish with vehicle re-marketing or pre-marketing their fleet, advise experienced asset re-marketing specialists. There are many companies which implemented the driver sales program, allowing them to offer the driver a lower price of the vehicle as a reward for proper maintenance while the vehicle was still in service.

This method has been proved to be the most successful upstream re-marketing plan, as not only do you reward your driver for his flawless service, you also ensure that he will maintain and take good care of the vehicles to come. Opposite to this method, some companies put their vehicles up for an auction on the company’s website or do a live event, where a competitive bidding is performed. There are many individual company philosophies, and even though they might be different, that does not make them right or wrong.

Things to know as a fleet manager

If you are a fleet manager aware of different aspects of service provider agreements looking to create a truly successful upstream re-marketing plan, here are the things you should know:

1. Things you want to accomplish – Each company has different points on view in terms of success and what it means to them. By spending money on each unit in a company’s portfolio and realizing that the increase in sales is low, reevaluation of the program should be undergone.

2. Written policy – Every upstream re-marketing program should be outlined in a written policy and carefully observed with periodic evaluations of the performance.

3. Communication is the key to success – Your job is to talk to all the potential buyers throughout the entire sale process, not only at the beginning of it. Gather feedback and make sure you improve your communication with all parties involved.

Choosing a pre-marketing company that will listen to fleet manager’s needs is essential for re-marketing success. If there are any problems in communication with the fleet manager or potential disagreements along the way, it is highly advised that you find a new pre-marketing company.

Every business should choose a solution which works best for them, and the one involving a vehicle fleet is no exception. Target the market which is best for your portfolio, and design a program that will help you address the market. Remember that if something works great for another company, it will not necessarily bring the same results to you.

Let Contemporary Apps Help You Learn How to Drive

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/04/18 in On the Road with Comments Off on Let Contemporary Apps Help You Learn How to Drive

Nowadays it is easier to grasp the underlying basics with almost little effort, as it will be possible to find plenty of instructions and helpful apps which will guide you through the process. Moreover, you need to only pay attention, as you will have everything at your fingertips, making even learning how to drive effortless and easy.

Gain More Knowledge Online

While most lessons are enough to get you through driving school, make sure that you do not fall behind, and that you practice as much as you can. Thanks to the help of the Driving Skills website online, you can have a chance to rehearse and to find out just how good you are. Then again, you will be only able to test your theoretical knowledge, meaning that you will have to undergo real-live practice as well. Be sure to get yourself as ready as possible, to enable you to sit relaxed and ready behind the wheel.

Be Sure to Follow the Instructions

For those who need a bit more practice on the side, the School Driving 3D app available for almost all platforms, and even for computers, will help get rid of nervousness. However, it will be good to get you mentally prepared for the lessons to be held live. Nevertheless, it will be a good way to get prepared and to ensure that you will be ready for when it is time to drive around town.

Use Your Phone’s Potential

It is very useful today to have a smartphone, not only because you are allowed to use the Internet and check your various social profiles, but because of a plethora of useful apps available. Many will be more than able to help you out in a pinch, either providing useful info, or making sure that you know what to do next. Remember that some will be pricey, but, in the long run, it might just save your car, and your own life.

Get Help Anywhere

The beauty of some apps available for your phone is that you can contact services no matter where you are. Moreover, they will be able to find out where you are and come get you, if you are unable to move your vehicle. On the other hand, you will be able to find out what you need to do if you get in a crash, so that you do not get into more trouble. You can also find a good repair shop to help fix your car in the end. Nevertheless, be sure to look through the apps, to sift through the useless ones, and find what you need.

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Practice Makes Perfect

Even though you can turn your smartphone into a walking encyclopaedia you can use at any moment, it is not always enough to help you learn something. Learning how to drive is theoretical in nature, but, you can only do as much unless you sit behind the wheel. It is best to opt for driving lessons which will help you grasp the basics of the road, and help you learn how to handle a car without problems.

Take advantage of the fact that you can help yourself without having to spend a lot of money on extra classes. With some amazing apps available widely for download, you will be able to work on your driving skills, and have no problems while driving, no matter the situation you are in. Bear in mind that practice makes you perfect, and that you will have to spend some time behind the wheel in order to be able to drive like a pro in no time.

4 Engines That Will Leave You Speechless

by Anica Oaks on 2016/04/14 in Auto Parts with Comments Off on 4 Engines That Will Leave You Speechless

Automotive engineers continue to push the envelope when it comes to speed and power. Car and truck engines are consistently pumping out greater power with less fuel and redesigned engine blocks that rip the open road. So let’s take a look at four engines hitting the streets today that will leave you absolutely speechless.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63

The 2016 S Coupe has something truly remarkable under the hood. The 5.5 Liter, AMG Biturbo V8 is a lot of engine for a sporty, little crossover SUV. It puts out 577 horsepower and 561 lb. ft. of torque. There aren’t many crossover SUVs on the market that can compete with that much get-up-and-go. The Biturbo V8 is well-managed by a 7-speed Speedshift AMG transmission that helps it get from zero to 60 in just 4.2 seconds. It’s a customizer’s dream.

2016 Dodge RAM 2500

From speed we go to raw power with the 2016 Dodge RAM 2500 and its 6.4 Liter HEMI V8. The HEMI V8 in the 2500 has best-in-class horsepower and all the torque you need to tow and haul with the big boys. Surprisingly, it’s not a gas-guzzler either. It’s got fuel saver technology that shuts down cylinders for downhill driving and long bursts at cruising speed. It’s really a throwback to old Mopar engines that used to do the same. It’s built to be durable, with stainless steel fasteners, exhaust gaskets and sodium-filled exhaust valves.

BMW M3 and M4

Next, let’s take a closer look at one of Car and Driver’s 10 greatest engines on the market today. It’s the 3.0 Liter inline-6 that’s currently featured on the BMW M3 and M4. It’s a specially-designed twin turbo that boasts 425 horsepower and 406 lb. ft. of torque. It has a forged-steel crankshaft and a closed-deck construction. The oil pan is made of magnesium and the cylinder bore surfaces are constructed from iron plasma. With the available laptimer app you can analyze your own driving speed like the racers do. With a Power Test Inc. dynamometer, you can figure out if you really are getting 143 horses per liter, as advertised.

2016 Ford Explorer Sport

Last but not least, the 2016 Ford Explorer Sport has a fast and fuel-efficient engine underneath it’s hood, as well. This new offering from Ford is a 3.5 Liter EcoBoost V6 with all-wheel drive and twin turbo. The direct injection, variable valve timing design gives you V8 power on less gas. Its no wonder that Edmunds.com gave it a 4 Star rating.

These aren’t supercars; they’re vehicles the average driver can afford. Yet, the engines that power them are well-designed and fuel-efficient. There are less naturally-aspirated engines on the market though as the reign of turbo continues to rise. Yet, there’s still something out there for everyone.

Cars that Defined a Generation

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/03/25 in Auto Design with Comments Off on Cars that Defined a Generation

Cars are a statement of who you are. There is no way around, just like your clothes, they send a distinct message—even if you’re not trying to. Take a look around the next time you’re on the road. You can see the snowboarder with a Thule rack, the recent graduate who has a tassel hanging proudly on the mirror or an opinionated driver with multiple messages stuck to their bumper.

Makes and models also tell people a lot about you. They can determine the rich (Teslas and Ferraris), the poor (a 1991 aqua metallic Geo Metro), families (minivans) or the uber eco-conscious (the Prius). But the pinnacle is the cars that defined entire groups or generations of people. They were notorious without longevity, and sought after by many for a time. They were one-hit wonders that people still look back on fondly. Unlike classics that stay around for multiple generations—think F150s, Accords and Corollas—they were only with us for a time. Of course, there are some that are still around because they have a cult following, but are well past their heyday. Read on to find out some of the vehicles that defined a generation.

Model T

The Model T was produced from 1908 until 1927. Also known as the Tin Lizzie, the Model T was considered the first affordable, mass-produced automobile. Although cars had been around for a while at this point in time, the Model T made it possible for more households to adopt the technology. The Model T had a whopping two speeds, plus reverse, and cost between $300 and $800.

Mustang

In 1964, Ford introduced a car that would forever hold a place in the avid car collector’s heart. The Ford Mustang is considered the first muscle car, and before it was three, had 500 fan clubs. Mustang was a symbol for the 60s, and quickly skyrocketed to pop-star status. The Mustang is still produced today, but doesn’t possess the allure it once did. Back in the day, Mustang had people like Steve McQueen and David Bowie acting and singing alongside it. It was the first automobile to win the Tiffany Gold Medal for excellence in American Design. It’s a nostalgic look at how a car influenced an entire generation.

Beetle

The VW Beetle is a distinctively-shaped rear engine vehicle that was most popular in America during the 60s. The Beetle has been in production for over 70 years, and the newest version looks very little like the model that has been seen all over the world. During its reign, VWs were iconic with flower children. It’s easy to imagine a Beetle covered in flowers and peace symbols heading to Woodstock. Beetles have never been known for their performance and safety, something that many fans lovingly overlook.

Trans Am

There was a time when every wannabe rock star wanted the holy grail of cars—the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. The special addition from 1978 displayed an incredible firebird graphic on the hood. The Trans Am was made even more popular by television. It had featured roles in shows like Smokey and the Bandit and Knight Rider, and was also a hot car on the racing circuit. Eventually the Trans Am fell from favor, but it will always be associated with hard rock and the glorious manes of the 80s.

Hummer

When the economy was stable and gas affordable, Americans were ready for a new vehicle. Extra-large SUVs became the cornerstone of the industry, and its golden goose was Hummer. Based on the military Humvee, the Hummer became a prevalent sight on roadways across the nation. Hummers boasted terrible fuel economy, oozed excess and were notorious for their unflattering yet popular looks. When the economic slump hit around 2008, there was no room for a vehicle that sucked up money, and Hummer went bankrupt. Once sold for $50,000-$100,000, you can easily find them for under $20,000 today. For a time, they were the ultimate symbol of overconsumption

The Station Wagon

Now more commonly called a 5-door or hatchback, there was a time when a station wagon was a thing. Families and friends piled into the Plymouth Volare or the Volvo 200 Series. They preceded the minivan revolution, offering people enough space to cart a carload of people and more. Station wagons do differ from today’s “wagons”. It all comes down to pillars and cargo volume.

MG, Alfa Romeo, Impala, Cutlass, Saturns, LeSabre, Datsun—cars have risen and fallen throughout the years, each playing a role in generations. Many people remember certain cars fondly, even if they don’t exist today. What’s your favorite?

Korey Adekoya works with Shabana Motors in Houston, TX. He runs the Shabana Motors Blog where he writes specifically about fixing bad credit and in-house financing options.

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