Thursday, March 3, 2011
Tatra 603 happy journey part 2
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony - Hatin Nation
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Melissa- Allman brothers
Monday, February 28, 2011
I don't care - Fall out boy with lyrics
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Lief! 3/3 (Spangas Remix)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Rumble In The Bronx 3-9
Friday, February 25, 2011
OTS: "(I've Got A Crush On A) YouTube Star" - Gabe Bondoc
Thursday, February 24, 2011
LTD - STRANGER ((WITH LYRICS))
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Eric Schmidt at Mobile World Congress
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Autogeek.net - New Meguiars Microfiber DA System
Monday, February 21, 2011
status quo - The Wanderer - Pictures 40 Years Of Hits
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Pimp C Ft. Drake & Bun B - What up (Lyrics)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Prophet Muhammad Cartoon Movie Part 7
Friday, February 18, 2011
John Legend- PDA (We Just Don't Care)
Thursday, February 17, 2011
404 Kevin & Yann (extra scenes) Now completely subbed
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
BEST BLACK OPS KILL CAM EVER!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Nas Drunk By Myself Video
Monday, February 14, 2011
Guess Who & Spike Tu
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Michael Jackson's This Is It - They Don't Care About Us - Dancing Inmates HD
Saturday, February 12, 2011
First Follower: Leadership Lessons from Dancing Guy
Friday, February 11, 2011
Dire Straits - Heavy Fuel LIVE (On the Night, 1993) HD
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Pure Hate - Wir haben die Züge schön
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Alex Jones Tv {Sunday Edition} 2/8:Pelosi "Buy a $15000 Policy or Go to Jail"
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Health Insurance Racket
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Auto-Tune the News #5: lettuce regulation. American blessings.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Chitchor
Friday, February 4, 2011
U2 - Love Is Blindness & Can't Help Falling In Love
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Kenny Chesney- Keg In The Closet
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Car Seat Covers
Car seats can undergo massive wear and tear. With regular use, sweat, dirt, dust particles, spills and other things cling to seats making them look drab, dirty and old. Fortunately, numerous companies provide excellently designed car seat covers in different materials and in several designs and sizes.
Companies such as Car Cover World, Mats-n-Covers, Equipment Covers, Auto Anything, California Car Cover Co, Car Covers-Car Bras, 1A Auto.com, Buy Automotive, Seat Covers.net, Car Accessories, Nascar.com, Car Bytes, Eastwood, Seat Lovers, Seat Covers Unlimited, Auto Seats, Legacy and Overland specialize in car covers of excellent quality that are suited for all types of vehicles.
Car Cover World, Auto Anything, Car Bytes and Eastwood are companies that provide CoverCraft car seat covers. These covers are washable, polycotton fabric available in different colors. They come with a ninety-day warranty and are very popular. Coverking is another popular brand whose seat covers usually come with headrests, armrests and map pockets.
Other popular brands are Coverking, Wet Okole, Call Trend Auto Accessories, Sheepskin Experts, Comfy, Blue Ribbon and Canine Covers. These brands offer maximum protection against any type of stains and give options to choose different materials such as waterproof neoprene, stain-resistant polyester or cotton and luxurious velour. Seat Covers.net has a huge selection of seat covers in different materials like zebra print and cow skin.
Car seat covers provided by Canine Covers are especially suited for dogs and other pets. It gives heavy protection against damages done by paw prints, dog hairs and claws. Other sheepskin and leather seat covers can be found at companies such as Overland and Autoseats.com.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Dementia Sundowning Care Plan
So, your Mom has dementia. And, every evening starting at 5.30, she begins sundowning. She cries. She wants her mother. She wants to go home. She wants anything but you, apparently. She's inconsolable. She weeps. She wails. She paces. She wrings her hands.
Or maybe it's your Dad. He wants to go home too. But he gets mad about it. He rants. He rages. He wants to go to work. To school. To war. He berates you. Harangues you. Sundowning is transitional for people with dementia but wrenching for their caregivers. Caregivers feel wrung out long after it's over for the person with dementia. That's why it's so important to have a care plan.
Sundowning is a universal phenomenon, not confined to those with dementia. At close of day, emotional feelings intensify. Babies get fretful, people feel their loneliness most, even birds go flying around energetically. It's a very intensified time throughout the whole of nature. So, keep a sense of proportion.
Each person has sundowning his or her own way, but normal sundowning does not become violent, crazed or last all night. That would be a sign expert psychiatric intervention might be needed, for possible PTSD, undiagnosed schizophrenia or some other serious mental illness or neurological issues.
Normal sundowning typically lasts about two hours. It involves intense feelings of loss, anger, longing, unhappiness, with agitated or anxious behaviors, often repeating the same thing over and over.
Typical might be:
"I have to go home now."
"Is my mother coming?"
"It's time for work."
"Nobody knows where I am."
Pay close attention to these, because they express real emotional issues. Your support helps genuine emotional issues, but your planning is needed for undowning. Before you plan, observe.
When does it start? When does it finish? What helps? Since we don't truly know what sundowning is, we take a multi-tasking approach. Assume hunger and hydration are issues. Assume redirection could help. Assume emotional support, not suppression, is needed. Don't be afraid. Sundowning doesn't harm anyone -- it's just distressing. Don't take on the agitation. This will pass in a given period of time.
The Care Plan:
1. About an hour before sundowning usually starts, give a nutritious snack and both juice and water;
2. When it starts, be supportive, don't argue, do console. Don't say,"Your mother died forty years ago," but "I know you miss your Mom," and then act motherly;
3. Have your distraction activity ready -- a drive in the car, a favorite movie, a cd of waltzes and you two waltzing, an old family photo album, consolation and Kleenex;
4. Relax and breathe deep, don't get swept up into agitation and do not think it's all failed braincells. That's abandonment of the worst kind.
5. Pay attention to the emotional issues and resolve to work with them. For example, if Dad wants to work, give him daily chores or gardening or something to do, so he can feel less useless. If Mom misses her mother so much, be more motherly to your Mom. That way, you may heal a wound she's always had until now.
It takes planning, yes, but you'll be glad you did it. I have found, in 20 years of working with people with dementia, it's entirely possible to eliminate sundowning with a good all-round care plan.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Machinima Respawn PAX Prime 2010 Coverage: Day 3 w/ Sark and Hutch
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Morrissey - There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Emergency Care Kits For the Car
Planning could save one a lot of hassle when it comes to road emergencies. Law enforcement agencies concerned with road safety point out that all drivers must have all the necessary emergency car kits. These kits come in handy during unusual weather condition and mechanical breakdowns. There are several items in these kits and you may be wondering what these components are. The first and foremost items to have are survival essentials such as food, warm garments and water in addition to other tools and accessories that are needed in times of emergencies. Below is a breakdown of all the items that are recommended for the kits.
Clean drinking water is necessary and it could help a person in distress survive for several days even without food. The water keeps the body form dehydrating which is the main cause of organ failure. Water may be taken for granted when it is in plenty; however when it is the only thing that could sustain you during an emergency, its value is immeasurable. Water also comes in handy for sanitation and cleansing of wounds. It is also possible to use the water to cool the engine in cases of overheating.
To minimize on space, the water is available in small packets which can easily be packed. Incase of any emergency in a remote area, food is necessary to give energy. The type of food that is put in the emergency kit should include foodstuffs that cannot go bad quickly. The best option is high energy food bars which can sustain extreme temperatures. Their flavor helps boost saliva amount in the body which reduces thirst. They also tend to expand inside the stomach giving a feeling of fullness.
The availability of food and drink is all well and good but in extreme conditions such as snowstorms, warmth, it is an absolute necessity. All cars should have wool blankets and extra emergency blankets. In addition, some warm rain gear should be included. There are special warm packs that are in the market which include all the necessary garments in one compact set. Light is important for situations when emergencies occur during night fall. Flashlights are handy items and those with a much longer battery life than ordinary models are recommended. Other important components in this category include lightsticks, waterproof matchsticks and emergency candles.
In the event of any injuries during an emergency situation, first aid equipment is needed. A first aid kit allows one to deal with injuries before professionals come to offer assistance. It should contain sterile pads, pain relievers, bandages, alcohol pads, gauze soap as well as some tape. Some tools may be needed during emergencies such as a collapsible shovel, and multipurpose knife. There are several survival tools in the market that are all-in-one inclusive of various necessities like a hammer, pry tool axe and many more components. Emergency care kits are a necessity for every car and they can either be bought in a pre-packed form or separately.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Paul Newman - Cool Hand Luke - Plastic Jesus
Thursday, January 27, 2011
(ENG. SUB) METEOR SHOWER drama EP 7-3 (一起来看流星雨)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
5 Common Car Care Myths
Most new vehicles are relatively maintenance-free, and engine technology has become so computerized over the last several years that most people go through the entire life of their car without ever opening the hood. That is both good and bad because this ability to practice benign neglect with your car has resulted in several misunderstandings about necessary car maintenance.
Here are 5 car care misunderstandings that you should know about.
1. Engine oil should be changed every 3000 miles.
If your car is still under the manufacturer's warranty then the period between oil changes should be no more than is set out in the owner's manual. Failure to follow the manufacturer's prescribed maintenance schedule may void the warranty. If your car is out of warranty you can extend the time period between oil changes by using synthetic motor oil. The number of miles that you can go between oil changes is dependent upon how you drive and the conditions that you drive in. Dusty roads and polluted city streets can shorten the interval substantially. 5000 mi. or more between oil changes for those engines using synthetic motor oil is not uncommon. One synthetic oil manufacturer, Royal Purple, reports oil change intervals as much as 12,000 mi. under normal driving conditions.
2. All scheduled maintenance must be performed by the dealer while your car is under warranty.
This is a common misunderstanding. Scheduled maintenance on your vehicle while under warranty can be performed by any automotive service center, or even by yourself. The warranty requires that the maintenance be performed on time, not who actually performs the maintenance. If you choose not to have the dealer perform your scheduled maintenance then maintaining the proper documentation to prove that it has been done could be critical in the event of a needed repair and a warranty dispute.
3. All car engines need to warm up at idle before driving away.
If you live in a moderate climate and drive your car every day then the internal engine parts are always covered with a thin coat of lubricant and you can drive away safely with no warm up at all. If the car only gets used once a week or so then a very brief warm up, probably only a minute or so, will get the engine parts coated so that you can drive away safely. If you live in a really cold climate where temperatures are below freezing for days at a time, and you do not use an engine oil heater it is recommended that you give the oil a few minutes to warm up and begin moving through the engine before taking off. In all cases it is better to start slowly and let the engine operate at low RPMs to get the oil viscous and moving smoothly through the engine.
4. The PSI on the tire sidewall is the correct air inflation pressure
The same tire could be used on many different vehicles so you are better off using the recommended tire air inflation pressure in your owner's manual or on the doorjamb on the driver's side.
5. It's OK to wash my car with dishwashing detergent
Dish detergents are designed to disperse and remove animal and vegetable fat and will do the same thing to your car wax. The best practice is to wash your car with products made for automotive use. This is the only way you can be assured that your cleaning product will not contain any trace elements that could harm your car's finish.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Kooks - David Bowie
Monday, January 24, 2011
BILL MOYERS JOURNAL | Bill Moyers on Health Care | PBS
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Is Your Teen Ready to Own a Car?
Owning a car is a huge responsibility. You must pay car insurance, put gas in the car, take care of routine maintenance such as brakes, tires, shocks, hoses, and fluid changes in addition to major repairs. Is a 16-year-old ready for that responsibility? It depends on how you much responsibility you've allowed them to have. If you're teen isn't responsible, you may want to nix the idea of them buying or having a car.
My niece got her driver's license a month ago and has been bugging her mom for a car; she's tired of using her mom's. Lo and behold, her mom's Saturn Station Wagon is on its last leg. The heater recently died and now the car won't start. It has seen better days. My niece wore her mom down by saying they can get a new car and it can be for the both of them. What! My niece hasn't paid her grandma back money that she borrowed to buy a digital camera and Wicked tickets. If her mom and dad don't 'nip this in the bud,' they'll be driven deeper into debt. Suze Orman would have a field day with this situation!
FYI: My niece asked her grandma if she'd co-sign a car loan. Grandma was smart enough to say, "I love you but there's no way I'd co-sign a loan for you or anyone." Grandma doesn't need to be driven into debt because of her granddaughter.
When I was 16, my father told me that the only way I'd be able to have a car is when I could put gas in it and pay the car insurance. He told me that if I couldn't put gas in a car, I had no business owning one. No matter how much I bugged him to go car shopping, he wouldn't budge. I got a part-time job and worked as much as I could. I saved my money and had enough in the bank to prove to him that I was ready for the responsibility. I got my car and took care of it. My dad helped me with major repairs, but I always put money towards them. I wanted to show him that I listened to what he said; I was responsible.
Question: If your teen isn't responsible enough to save money for a car, how will they be able to buy one and take care of it? It doesn't make sense.
Parents it's up to you to teach your teen responsibility. Don't allow them to run the show -- you're their parents! Most teens aren't working 40 hours a week, paying home owners insurance, paying the mortgage or rent, buying groceries, or paying the utilities and other expenses. They have no idea of what it's like to live in the 'real' world, especially if they've been sheltered all of their life.
Don't allow your teen to stronghold you into making a major decision just because it will benefit them. Sit your teen down and explain to them that owning a car is a major responsibility -- it's not a 'Hot Wheels toy! Take them car shopping if they're ready, if not; make them wait a few years until they become more mature. Good luck!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Cool Car Accessories
When it comes to teens and cars, the fun accessories that you can find are virtually endless. There are many great items that can be given as gifts. It does not take much to impress your teen. As a new driver, there is so much for them to get used to. Ease them into it with a few exciting accessories for their first car. Teens love to make their things personalized and original. Doing this does not have to be extremely expensive. There are many great accessories for teens that come at a reasonable price.
Perhaps one of the first car accessories that parents should consider for their teens is something that allows them hands free use of their phone and iPod. A blue tooth setup for cell phones makes it easy to talk without having to take any hands off the wheel. Cell phones and driving is becoming a real epidemic so eliminate the chances of your teen becoming negligent behind the wheel. An iPod docking kit is also fantastic for teens. It allows them to play music and carry their favorite tunes in and out of the car with ease.
Personalized and custom accessories are always great for gifts. Keychains of all kinds can be engraved with names, initials or slogans. Custom key chains are just the beginning though. You can also get a customized license plate through your local registry office. It does require an application process and additional printing fee but it goes a long way in personalizing a vehicle. Seat covers are another low cost way to add some décor and personal style to your teen's car. The possibilities and choices have no limit.
Stereo and speaker equipment is always a hit among teens. They all seem to want the most impressive sound system. While high end systems can range into very large amounts of money, you can find many great quality systems for a fair and decent price. Upgrading speakers from the factory system does not have to be expensive. Shop carefully and you might be surprised at the great deals out there to be had.
Every teenage driver needs to be fully equipped with a car care kit. This includes such items as window wipes, Kleenex and a duster. Cars get dirty fast so toss in some garbage bags too. Cup holders should be wiped out regularly and taken right out for a cleaning every few months. Teens need to be aware of how important it is to show responsibility by maintaining their vehicle in every way.
A mini fridge or cooler is a great accessory for teenagers. They are very small and portable. They are perfect for carrying snacks, lunch or some cold drinks in your car. They come in many different versions and styles so shop around online. Stickers and decals are perfect for self expression, which we all know is important to teens. There are so many cool car accessories for teens that you should have no problem finding something perfect for the teen driver in your life.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Video Driving Lesson 6 Turning Right www.2pass.co.uk
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Jobs - Car Salesman
We've all heard the jokes about car salesmen, especially used car salesmen. We have a picture in our minds of these shady characters we wouldn't trust with our pencils let alone with selling us an automobile. The truth is, car salesmen have a tough job. Think you want to sell cars for a living? You might want to read what follows first.
In spite of what most people think, selling cars is not as simple as just showing somebody an automobile and getting them to sign on the bottom line. The car selling process for a salesman is actually quite involved with many steps along the way.
For starters, most of the large car dealers have a sales force. This sales force is broken up into teams and shifts. Because most dealerships are open late, one shift takes the morning and afternoon while another shift takes the afternoon and evening. A dealership may have as many as 25 salesmen working for them, not counting finance people.
When a customer comes in, the salesmen take turns approaching them for help. This way each salesman has the chance to close a sale. If it's slow, this puts everyone on equal footing. If it's busy, then the salesman who closes his sales the fastest will make out the best. This is because if he is done and everyone else is with a customer, then he gets the next customer that comes in regardless of who's "turn" it is. Customers are never supposed to wait more than 30 seconds to be waited on.
The first thing the salesman does is ask the customer what they're looking for. After getting this info, he'll show the customer several models in the price range or class that he wants. This is probably the lengthiest part of the process as the customer may have a number of questions and even ask for a demo drive. If a demo drive is asked for the salesman has to check in with the manager to get the keys. This is to make sure that a salesman doesn't just hop into a car and drive off with it.
If after the demo ride and all the questions are answered the customer decides he wants to get the car, the salesman's job isn't done. Not by a long shot. The next thing he has to do is bring the customer to the finance office to work out the financing of the vehicle. While this is going on the salesman has to go to the prep department with the car. Here he tells the prep guys what needs to be done to the car, such as if any extra equipment needs to be added. It's the salesperson who coordinates this whole process, making sure that the prep department gets the car ready for delivery and also making sure that the finance office takes care of financing.
After the car is prepped and the finance papers are all filled out, the salesman then gets the car from the prep department and drives it to the pickup area. After the customer is all done with the paperwork, the salesman escorts the customer out to the new car, hands him the keys and gives him his business card. He tells the customer to call if he has any questions.
The salesman then has to go back inside and fill out a report on the sale and submit it to his manager.
Yes, selling a car is not just selling a car.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Car Accident Tips - Avoiding Car Accidents on Rainy Days
Car accidents are not something that anyone wants to be involved in. However, when conditions are less than favorable outdoors, the auto accident becomes much more common than it would on a dry, sunny day. If you are driving in the rain, you know how hard it can be to drive safely and effectively without getting into an accident. Not only do you have to worry about your own driving and other drivers, but now you have to deal with the weather as well. Here are some tips to help you avoid accidents on rainy days. Find out how a San Diego Personal Injury Lawyer can help you represent your case.
-Don't panic. Too often, when people suddenly come into inclement weather, they act in one of two ways. Either they panic like they have never driven in the rain before or they drive carelessly because they don't think it is a big deal. Everyone knows to be careful, but you probably didn't know that you can be too careful on wet roads.
If you were involved in a car accident find out how a San Diego Personal Injury Attorney can help you against Insurance companies.
-Stay back. Whenever you are stopping, turning, or accelerating, make sure that you leave lots of extra room in front of you. You don't want to have to hit the brakes at the last minute and slide into the car in front of you because of the wet roads.
-Give fair warning. Like the tip above, you need to give people plenty of time and room when you are changing speeds or turning somewhere. Put your signal on earlier, slow down sooner, and make sure that people have plenty of warning that you are changing speed or direction.
See how a San Diego Auto Accident Attorney can help maximize your compensation
-Turn your headlights on. Even though this is a law in many states, a lot of people don't realize it or care to follow it. Many think that headlights during rain or limited visibility are a courtesy, but it is actually much safer. People will be able to see you better and you will avoid accidents because of this.
If you are involved in a car accident on a rainy day that isn't your fault, you do have options. Aside from having other driver's insurance cover the losses from the accident, you can hire a personal injury attorney to help you fight your claim and get money compensation for your suffering. Not everyone has the ability to file an injury case in court, but you can get a free consultation with an injury attorney to discuss your rights when someone else is at fault. Contact the Grey Law Group for a free consultation with an expert San Diego injury lawyer today.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Oil Change - Quality Auto Care Near You
Did you happen to forget to take your car in for a routine inspection or oil change? It is not a big deal to miss a usual trip to the mechanic by a hundred miles or so, but make sure to plan your visits about every 3 months or 3,000 miles. Your engine's oil is a very important element of your car, so do not neglect to take care of it. The following includes information on great auto care centers that are here to help you and your vehicle with the best possible service.
It is not a big deal to miss a visit to the auto shop by a hundred miles or so, but try to keep an eye on when your last trip was. It pays and saves to be diligent when it comes to caring for your automobile. A lot of times, just spending a little on affordable, routine tune ups can lead to avoiding much more severe problems. For instance, if you notice anything out of the ordinary about the performance of your vehicle, then do not hesitate to let a professional help you.
When it comes down to the quality of the oil within your vehicle, it is crucial to make sure that it remains in exceptional condition. Over time, regardless of the type of area you live in or how much driving you do, your engine's lubrication will collect debris and slowly accumulate sludge buildup from burning. This type of grime will inevitably lead to poor performance by your car. Besides lessened efficiency and paying for more gas, neglecting to take care of this simple task can lead to permanent motor damage.
There are plenty of great car shops with experienced technicians waiting to take care of an oil change or other type of maintenance for you. These people are happy to help with something as simple as swapping out an old filter. They know that you need to save at the gas pump, so do yourself the favor and let them make your automobile as efficient as possible.
Simply putting off a maintenance job that is as affordable as an oil change can result in your spending more than you thought you would. Not only will your vehicle's engine start to perform poorly, but so will other car parts that directly function with it.
Engine oil will burn and begin to deplete gradually no matter what, but it does not have to become polluted and clog up the areas it should be helping. Furthermore, these changes are better for the environment, as they reduce the frequency of trips to fuel stations and cut down on the amount of exhaust being expelled by your vehicle.
To start saving on spending, improve gas mileage, drive with peace of mind, and extend the overall life of your automobile, go to a certified mechanic near you. Qualified workers will be ready to take care of any problems and answer all of your questions by providing top of the line service.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
"Ego Rock" Janis Joplin Live (Rare Song about Port Arthur)
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Insurance For Small Business - Mobile Car Wash Companies
No matter what type of small business you have, you will need insurance to protect against risks. That includes even a very small mobile car washing business. Not long ago someone who was interested in purchasing an existing mobile car washing company asked about the need for insurance. He wanted to know;
How difficult and expensive is it to obtain proper insurance for the mobile car washing business?"
Not too bad, go to a commercial independent insurance broker. Ask them about general liability, tell him or her, you will NOT be in the Care, Custody, or Control of the vehicles, and thus, you DO NOT NEED garage keeper's liability, just a general liability policy, including slip and fall. This of course is if you are just doing fleets and car lots. If you are doing auto-detailing you will need Garage Keeper's Liability Insurance also.
If you clean car dealerships, then every one of those larger dealerships will want an insurance certificate and most will want to be additionally insured for 1 Million aggregate. You will also need commercial auto insurance, and most importantly Workmen's Comp, which is a big expense, and why you might consider hiring a temporary agency for your employees, and have the current employees go sign up with them to work for you.
My acquaintance then told me he'd had a meeting with a business broker handling the sale, and hoped to soon; "receive profit and loss statements and tax returns." This of course is a must if you are buying an existing mobile washing company. And make sure they show insurance expenditure on those documents as well.
He reminded me that; "typically many small business owners will phony these papers up but I will wait and see what happens with this business." Excellent point, many small businesses do indeed fake such documents, I've seen this myself numerous times and have these comments to offer in that regard;
"Trust No One" the CIA Motto. Or consider Ronald Reagan and Henry Kissinger's tact; "Trust but Verify" and they were right, verify EVERYTHING, do your due diligence. If you find question marks, lower your offer to deal with it, or walk.
Needless to say, when buying a mobile auto cleaning company or mobile car wash get insurance, watch the risks, and do your due diligence before buying any existing company, as you will save yourself lots of money in the future, and not get taken by nonsense. Indeed, I hope you've learned something here today and will please consider all this.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Eartha Kitt - Where Is My Man.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Car Maintenance Costs - The Real Story...
If you walked into your local car dealer and requested a 30,000-mile maintenance service, is it safe to assume that the dealer will follow manufacturer guidelines when servicing your car? Should the dealer "only" follow manufacturer guidelines? Can they bend the guidelines...?
Here's a recent and very common scenario that occurred at a local Toyota dealership....
A service customer called the dealer to schedule the manufacturer's recommended 30,000-mile service for his 2005 4-Cylinder Camry. However, the dealer added several services NOT included in the guidelines.
The additional services included a coolant flush (drain and refill), automatic transmission service (drain and refill), and a power steering fluid change.
According to the manufacturer, the coolant does not need to be replaced until 100,000 miles. The automatic transmission fluid can last until 120,000 miles. And there is no specific maintenance interval for the power steering fluid.
Now, before we throw the dealer under the bus, which, don't get me wrong, is always a blast to do, is there any legitimacy in recommending these extra services? Are there any circumstances where one may want to consider performing a coolant or transmission service 70,000 to 90,000 miles sooner than recommended by the manufacturer of the car? If we assume that we're not driving the vehicle beyond its limits, such as racing, off-road, or a high-speed police chase, the answer is no - not in this case.
There are times, however, when it is ok to venture outside manufacturer guidelines. The conditions include, but are not limited to: maintenance neglect, abuse, vehicle age, poor manufacturer design, and poor quality of fuel.
While each of the exceptions above are fun to explore, we should highlight fuel quality concerns. Poor gas quality often leads to carbon build up, which can be remedied by a professional fuel injection service. Aside from this fuel cleaning service (which no manufacturer recommends during regular maintenance), there is no service outside of the manufacturer guidelines that offers any real or lasting benefit.
So how can a dealer recommend services outside of the guidelines set by the manufacturer of the product that they sell and service?
The answer is that car dealerships (the majority anyway) are independent of the manufacturer. In other words, they're not bound to adhere to set guidelines. In fact, many dealers create there own maintenance schedules. This creative practice is increasing as manufacturers continue to extend maintenance services, stripping dealers of there usual high and comfortable profit margins.
Interestingly, in terms of service, a manufacturer and a dealer are in opposition of one another. Manufacturer's set vehicle maintenance schedules to keep vehicles maintained according to their standards; however, one of those standards is "low cost." Low maintenance costs net a positive image to the manufacturer. The service center in a dealership on the other hand, wants cars to be as "high cost" as possible to maintain.
Despite all this, there is another possibility worth exploring in this dealer versus manufacturer scenario. Given that the client called the dealer it's likely that he spoke with an untrained and under-qualified customer service representative. The representative may have misled the client, providing outdated maintenance recommendations, as the older Toyota's did in fact require the coolant and transmission services mentioned above.
In larger dealerships, telephones are usually answered by Call Centers. This is a group of people who know little about cars, but are generally pleasant on the phone. Call Center representatives are famous for providing misinformation and miss-reading a detailed automotive service menu, such as a 30,000-mile service on a 2005 4-Cylinder Camry. In other words, one of these representatives may have listed services which are NOT actually part of the service. This happens every day! Few notice...who actually remembers anything after: the service includes and oil and filter change, check fluids, belts, hoses, replace the air filter, set tire pressures....blah, blah, blah...
The owner of the Camry was quoted $450 - which - if the dealer was actually going to perform all that it stated, and the car actually needed it - would actually be a good deal.
The real and fair price according to manufacturer guidelines for a 30,000-mile service on a 2005 4-Cylinder Toyota Camry is $272.03 @ $100 per hour. To see the break down of FAIR charges visit: http://www.repairtrust.com/auto_repair_estimate_toyota_camry_4cyl_auto_2005_30k_serv.html
The service includes the following:
Inspections:
Inspect ball joints and dust covers
Inspect brake hoses/lines
Inspect brakes, pads/discs/runout
Inspect and test traction control
Inspect CV joints and boots
Inspect coolant
Inspect automatic transmission fluid
Inspect differential fluid (A/T trans)
Inspect radiator/hoses
Inspect steering system
Inspect exhaust
Inspect fuel system/lines/hoses/gas cap/induction system
The only items that actually get or require replacement:
Engine oil and filter
Cabin filter
Air filter
Transmission fluid (manual transmissions only)
Other services:
Reset maintenance reminder light
Rotate tires
Tighten nuts and bolts on chassis
The frequency of manipulating the guidelines with extra services is astounding. And it's only one tactic of hundreds. Stretching pre-determined guidelines expands across all makes, models - foreign and domestic, and occurs at dealers, local shops and franchises. It occurs because the automotive service industry has zero accountability in any tangible sense.
Thus the service customer has no true advocate, information, or resources in which to turn, that can provide sound, fair, and reasonable prices and advice. For this reason alone, rests the creation of RepairTrust.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Jee Karda - Singh Is Kinng (English Subs)
Monday, January 10, 2011
Shawty Putt - Dat Baby (feat. Too $hort)
Friday, January 7, 2011
there is- boxcar racer (lyrics)
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Exotic Skin Car Upholstery - Your Care and Feeding Guide
Genuine exotic skin car upholstery is reserved for the finest custom car designs. A car interior designer knows that it's what's inside that counts for comfort and style for the ultimate drive. High end custom development starts with exotic materials - and what is more exotic than genuine crocodile, alligator, lizard, ostrich, and python skin?
Outfitting cars with custom design is nothing new to the automobile industry. Leather seats are a popular option when made available to the consumer. Exotic leather car interiors take this a step further.
The inside of the car is also likely to have the same wear-and-tear that any car does when driven under normal conditions - starting where you put your hands and feet. The most vulnerable spots are the driver's side door, steering wheel, and seat. The console is notorious for dust and dirt. For the best look, you'll want to keep these areas well maintained and cleaned regularly.
Anywhere you put your hands are the first places that will collect dirt. The gear shifter and steering wheel. Give your car's exotic leather a fine coat of leather cleaner and treatment to keep them safe in these areas.
Also know that some skins, like Ostrich leather, will get softer over time. Ostrich is naturally oily and will pick up dirt and dust. Keep ostrich interiors well maintained and know that the skin's qualities will get softer over time, increasing its look and feel.
Don't smoke in your car. Period. Smoking always creates odors and stains.
Most of us, at some time, will have something "spillable" in our cars. It could be oil, food, coffee, gas, or anything liquid. Many of these will stain a finish. Avoid putting any fluids in your car if you can. If you must, make sure that the container is properly sealed so it will not cause any leaks on your high-end material! Wrap fluid containers with plastic and keep them secure, or put them in the trunk if necessary.
Extreme temperatures or exposure to sunlight will also influence the appearance of exotic skin over time. Certain finishes can react to the sun, fading the color or shine. While there is always the chance of heat or cold affecting the look of material, a good broker will have at least a general idea of what skins and finishes will hold up best in extreme weather conditions.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Taking Care Of A Classic Car Adds Years Of Enjoyment
If you want to prolong the life of your prized vintage vehicle, taking care of a classic car requires some diligence and loving care. The first thing you might think about is the car's exterior and certainly, a gentle washing and careful drying can prolong the paint job and leave your vehicle with a flawless finish. There are many people that keep their car in the garage, but you should still be careful, when it comes to removing dust and when removing foreign matters you might encounter, when it is not garaged.
You might need to remove paint-damaging things like tree sap, bird droppings, or leftover bug splats, but be sure you use the proper formulations. When taking care of a classic car, many people use car detailing polish, but you need to be careful before using solvents, rubbing compound or harsh cleaners, because they can damage the finish on your vehicle. It does not matter whether it is a 1965 Ford Mustang or a new model, this fact is true.
Taking care of a classic car might require a regular mechanical inspection, especially if your vintage vehicle is seldom driven. It is best if you can start the car and drive it short distances once a week, but at least if you move it occasionally, you can avoid flat spots on the tires. Keep in mind that your hoses and belts can become dry and brittle, if they sit for long periods of time. Using lubricating and protective oils or cleaners might be recommended on many of the rubber parts, hinges and regular mechanical inspections might be in order. Be sure to check all of your fluids because leaks can develop in gaskets that have dried out, causing severe engine or transmission damage.
If you think about taking care of a classic car in the same way you would a newer vehicle, you might need to consider a regular maintenance schedule. Protecting the interior surfaces can keep it from drying out and cracking, even if you think taking care of a classic car means keeping it garaged or under a car cover. While these covers are breathable and water impermeable, there can still be damage lurking, once you remove the storage cover.
Taking care of a classic car might involve regular waxing and constant examination for chipped paint or surface rust, which are things that develop over time. These can wreck the stability of the vehicle's structure, besides ruining a custom paint job. Even the sun's rays can cause a breakdown of the materials in these covers and your paint job can become damaged through blistering. You would hate to think that mindless neglect was responsible for damaging a prized vintage vehicle, like a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1, which was kept covered and you assumed was adequately protected, for example.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Lindsey Williams - The Elite Speak - DVD 1 Part 8 - Jan/Feb 2010 (To Seduce a Nation)
Monday, January 3, 2011
Winter Car Care and the Most Important Checks You Should Do
If you care about your car, you should be aware that the onset of winter is a sign that you need to take into consideration. There are some checkups you should do before you can drive your car safely during the winter. In this article you will find out the most important winter car care checks ups and how you should handle them.
First of all, you should consider the condition of the tires. This is because the tires are the ones that will have to fight icy and snowy roads. The control and the traction of your car depend on the tires and this is why you should offer special attention when selecting them.
Little wear and good thread are the two important characteristics of great winter tires for your car. When the weather conditions ask for it, you should change your regular tires with special designed winter ones.
The engine coolant level is the second checkup you should definitely perform before the onset of winter. The mixture of antifreeze should be prepared carefully if you want to avoid damages done by frosting.
Especially when the temperatures go below freezing point, you should prepare your antifreeze mixture. The oil level should also be checked up regularly using the dipstick. Of course, the oil level should be checked up only when the engine is cold for getting relevant results.
Besides the texture of your tires, you should take into consideration the pressure of your tires as well. This is because maintaining a good pressure in your tires will help you control the car better when facing difficult driving conditions during winter. This is an important routine checkup you should have in mind for your winter car care schedule.
The car lights are very important to be checked up as well before the onset of winter. This is because during this season the days will be shorter and you will need your lights to function properly. It is very important to check both the light bulbs and the alignment of the lights so that they offer optimal light.
The last but not the least of the regular checkups you should perform in your winter car care schedule is the windshield wipers. This is because you will need them in perfect condition during winter. They should flow on your windshield and be able to clean it properly.
Preparing your car for the winter should also include a few things that you need to purchase or put in your car. For example, depending on where you live you might need a small shovel, jump leads, water, a reflective jacket, boots, gloves and other things.
In conclusion, if you feel that you do not know how to prepare your car for winter properly, you can hire a local garage to do that for you. It is important to understand that winter car care is an aspect you should be preoccupied with as it can sometimes save your life.