Automotive Articles

Articles Based Around The Car and Automotive Issues

Nissan Turns Over A New Leaf

Posted by on Aug-26-2010 under Automotive

 

Nissan’s new electric car, the Leaf, will be sold in Ireland as a complete unit including the battery, which means there will be no hidden separate monthly battery leasing charges.There is an array of other Government incentives, both fiscal and non-fiscal, currently under review that may further defray the costs and increase the benefits of owning and charging a Nissan Leaf in Ireland – these combined with the ESB’s commitment to install home charging points free of charge to the first 2,000 electric vehicle customers makes the Leaf a really tempting option for the first people to reserve a car.

Maintenance costs on the Leaf will also be lower as there are fewer moving parts. And average annual running costs for Leaf are expected to be about €20 per month. Nissan says Leaf customers can expect to save 80 per cent on running costs compared to traditional vehicles.

Innovative smart phone connectivity will allow an owner to control many elements of the Leaf’s functions remotely – including tell the car when to re-charge, to heat or cool the interior of the car before starting a journey and many more remarkable features.

The satellite navigation on the Leaf can connect directly to a global data center via the telematics system giving owners updates on charging points, driving patterns, etc.

Power comes from the 80kw AC motor which develops 280Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of more than 140km/h. Thanks to the near instant response from its 80kw electric motor, Nissan Leaf offers startling performance from a standstill. Furthermore, this performance is delivered in near silence with no vibrations.

The electric motor is “fuelled” by a laminated lithium-ion battery with a power output of more than 90 kw. The 48 module battery is mounted under the seats and floor of the Nissan Leaf, ensuring a low centre of gravity for near roll free cornering with excellent ride quality. The battery is made by the Automotive Energy Supply Corporation, Nissan’s joint venture with electronics maker NEC.

A full charge delivers a potential range of 160km which research indicates will satisfy the daily driving demands of most customers. Global research indicates that the average daily mileage for 80 per cent of the world’s population is below 100km .. see some Nissans here , Second Hand Nissan Cars In Carlow To get a better deal

 

Second Hand Nissan Cars Donegal

Electric Car Conversion

Posted by on Aug-25-2010 under Automotive

Many have now decided to pimp their rides and transform them into electric powered cars.Partly, such decision is maybe affected by the awareness of environmental issues emerging nowadays. It has been said that these cars are actually money-saving and environmentally friendly. Electric car conversion is can be done without an expert because it’s so easy to do as long as you follow the procedures.

Markets are now selling electric car conversion kits to guide you in building your own. A lot of people can perform the car conversion because the instructions provided are almost as easy as one, two, three. You should never handle non-engine parts of the car in the whole process of conversion. However, there are pros and cons that you must consider before getting started in transforming your ride.

One of the most genuine advantages of converting a car is that you can save so much money from the gasoline you’re using from your ordinary car. So, instead of spending thousands for a full tank, you can simply plug in your electric car and in no time, you can be hitting the road again. Normally, the speed of charged cars can reach up to 65 miles per hour. So impressive for an electric powered car. And besides, charging the car is not that expensive. With this, you can surely save money in the long run which you can spend on more important stuff.

Another thing to consider is that electric car motors can reduce many forms of pollution. For an instance, it can lessen noise pollution because of the way it is made. It’s a good feeling that you can keep money for yourself while being a good steward of our dear nature.

Data shows that through electric cars, the number of road accidents is reduced due to the special mechanism and performance of the car. After all, your life is more important than any other thing in this world.

But, with all of these advantages, electric cars also have their disadvantages. {One of these is that converted cars are relatively complicated to repairFirstly in comparison top regular fuel vehicles, a car that has been converted may sometimes be more expensive to repair}. These means that you have to be real careful in handling it because might be, the repair may take longer than the conversion itself.  Aside from that, electric car batteries need to be changed every now and then. Since, you only have to charge the battery to run the car, time will really come that it will be weakened. At this point you will definitely have to replace it.

So, what are you waiting for, build your own electric vehicle now!

 

The Navigator is a status symbol that was greatly distinguished by well-known athletes and hip-hop stars. This giant SUV is so showy that it has 2 huge chrome grilles, an optional chrome hood mustache and an oversized Lincoln cross logo on it. The Navigator captures the attention any place it is driven. Inside the car will have you thinking back to the good old days of Saturday Night Fever. The interior and dash has a retro fashion design to it. This SUV could be your stylish fix for the minivan. With the Navigators 3rd row seat you can fit all the little ones in with all their [baseball equipment as well. This vehicle is also known for having a very silent and comfortable drive for any extensive journeys you might need to go on. With a towing capability of nearly 9,000 pounds you can hitch your boat up for the weekend and go down to the lake.

If you are looking for a Lincoln Navigator these Dover Ford Lincoln dealers are spectacular. Willis Ford has the biggest car selection of Dover Ford dealers. Ford dealers Dover are not hard to come by but Willis Ford will surely please.

The Navigator comes in only one fully packed version. It features parking sensors, rear-view mirror mounted backup camera, power lift gate, power tilt-telescoping steering wheel and 18-inch wheels. On the interior it features rear-seat climate control, second row center console, 10-way power front seats with heating, fourteen speaker-audio system with 6-disk CD changer, axillary jack and satellite radio. There are some options to add on such as the elite package which includes a navigation system, sun roof and a rear seat DVD entertainment system. This SUV is like home away from home with all the comforts of your living room.

The Lincoln Navigator has an in-your-face style that will defiantly get you recognized. The immense chrome grille and the lush interior just screams luxury. Perfect for towing or to carry about all the children this SUV is family friendly. Full of safety features such as the newly added trailer sway control, you will be at ease while driving. The Navigator comes with everything you need in just one trim with just a few packages to nudge it over the top.

The BMW Z4 Soft Top

Posted by on Aug-22-2010 under Automotive

When we look at the BMW Z4 Soft top, it’s the rag top that heads the features list — this is, after all, a roadster. Claimed to fold away sans human help in under 10 seconds, the fully automatic soft-top is standard across both models. Even with the canvas down there’s enough space for a weekend worth of (well-packed) luggage.Minimalist climate controls are located centrally, low on the dash. They’re easy to operate, and very functional.. Utilising electrically-actuated hydraulic assistance, EPS is claimed to offer fuel consumption savings as no power is drained when steering effort is not required..

Punch the console-mounted sport button on the Z4 and you dial up a change in ignition and fuel maps, gearchange points (in auto models) and steering effort While the urge of the 170kW 3.0i is infectious, the sweet spinning 141kW 2.5i powerplant delivers enough pace to keep most drivers smiling. Indeed, even in 5 speed autobox guise performance is spirited.

Standard gearbox for the 3.0lt Z4 is a wonderful short-throw close-ratio six-speed manual. The engine’s happy for you to use the old 1-3-5-6 short-shift routine, but I found myself going up and down the box just for fun.

.A conventional front-engined rear wheel drive layout, the Z4 gets vented discs on all 4 corners. The 3.0i gets uprated discs with the front set a full 300mm in diameter.Suspension is based on the critically-acclaimed 3 Series but modified for an even sportier feel
Sports seats are standard in both models, with leather, seat heating and electric adjustment also standard. The steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach, so you’d be hard-pressed not to find the spot you like.Unlike some roadsters there’s also plenty of space for bits and pieces — even cup/can holders make it into the standard spec. Suffice it to say, criticisms about the spartan nature of the dash aside, the standard trim is classy and comfortable. Search Second Hand Toyota car Sales in Sligo to find the car of your dreams.

Second Hand Toyota car Sales in Leitrim

.

A Look At The Renault Laguna

Posted by on Aug-21-2010 under Automotive


The mid-sized hatch first had a crack in the mid-1990s, presenting a stylish but bland-to-drive offering that soon disappeared in a fog of buyer disinterest.

Blandness is not a death sentence for every car’s sales future, but for a French brand that is expected to show something at least a little wacky, a lack of character is not tolerated for long. As for the original Laguna, not even the Renault faithful were interested. It, along with Renault’s Aisian presence, disappeared for several years.

When the reinvigorated Company had another go at relaunching the Renault Laguna back in 2002, we all waited to see what the market would make of it, and what sort of car it was.

Unfortunately, it didn’t matter. The marketplace again voted with its feet, walking straight past Renault showrooms.

But what the actual car was like was a happier story.

The Laguna was available as both a hatchback and station wagon, but initially only in Authentic mid-spec and Privilege upper-spec trim levels, and only with the 3.0-liter V6 engine.

In the past, we’ve often plumped for the four-cylinder versions of European cars on the basis that they’re usually the home-market version and all the better for it. But this time, the V6 proved itself to be worth the extra money if only for its refinement and relaxed drive.

Nothing really was wrong with the 2.0-liter engine, and it did offer a manual gearbox (which the V6 didn’t). But purchasers in that section of the market wanted automatic transmissions, and the four-cylinder car dropped the ball by using a four-speed auto compared with the V6’s five-speed unit.

So the V6 was the one to have, but it wasn’t perfect.

The four-speed engine was smooth and refined, but it didn’t really offer a sporty level of acceleration. But that was the least of it.

The main problem was the gearbox, a fully electronic unit with fly-by-wire technology.

It was easily confused.

And even when it was left to its own devices, it could sometimes throw a jagged, clunky shift into the mix for no apparent reason.

The rest of the driving experience was hardly typical of a European medium-sized, front-wheel-drive car.

Cornering was relatively flat and the ride trod the middle ground between plush and controlled, but at the same time the Laguna managed some of that long-lost French magic-carpet quality.

The beauty of it all was the way it came together. It also confirmed the old view that Europe really does have some of the best suspension engineers around.

But the thing that really should have carried the Laguna a bit further up people’s shortlists was its stunning safety rating.

Indentantly tested, it was the world’s first car to achieve five stars out of five for occupant safety.

That five-star rating is probably the Laguna’s biggest-selling point as a second-hand car, even today. Need to know:

 

Used Ford Focus For Sale Ireland is offered by Used Renault Clio For Sale Ireland

 

Transmission Flush — When And How Often

Posted by on Aug-20-2010 under Automotive

What exactly is a transmission flush?
A transmission flush is the process of removing the old worn out fluid along with the gunk that accumulates in the gears, torque converter, etc.. and replaces it with brand new fluid to extend your transmission life.

When should should a transmission fluid flush be performed?
if you have a low mileage vehicle or a high mileage vehicle that has had the transmission regularly flushed then doing a fluid exchange is a good idea.

Which automobiles should have transmission flush done?
you should have your transmission flush done every 25,000 to 30,000 miles.  The average charge of a transmission flush is forty dollars on the low end and up to $100 .  A Transmission rebuild cost can anywhere from $1,600 to several thousand dollars, so the low cost of a flush is well worth the ounce of deterrence to ward off a major overhaul.

Where to bring your vehicle?
Also do not bring your vehicle to a “oil and lube” for a transmission flush.These types of business are not certified transmission specialits and can cause major expense in the long run..  Use a transmission shop with ase certified technicians and make sure they change the filter with the flush is done.

Which trucks should have a flush done?
If you have a vehicle with more than one hundred thousand miles and the fluid has not once been swapped or if you inspect the transmission fluid and it stinks like scorched fluid you had better keep away from a transmission flush.  the reason why is that once the flush is done it could suck a bunch of gunk deep into your transmission that could cause major problems several months later.

Consult your transmission repair shop. Your transmission shop mechanic should ask you about the history of your vehicle. If your vehicle would not benefit from a flush, then the mechanic should let you know..

Government Seized Cars For Sale

Posted by on Aug-20-2010 under Automotive

There are lots of government seized cars for sale all over the United States. And if you are looking for a great way to have your own automobile, then these could be what you are looking for. In fact, there are already millions of people who are rooting for these kinds of vehicles. And this is because many people believe that this scheme is more practical than the conventional and regular dealerships.

These government seized cars for sale are very cheap. So if you are tight in your budget, this could be the best option for you. Most of the vehicles being sold are priced about 80 to 90 percent lower than its original market value. There are also those that are sold with a very remarkable 90% discount. And if you are very lucky, you might even purchase a luxury automobile that is priced as if it is just any other ordinary unit.

These government seized cars for sale are not brand new. They are just confiscated by the authorities from their previous owners. These people surrendered these properties probably because they failed to settle their loan and mortgages. There is also a huge possibility that this surrender is demanded by the courts. Either way, the authorities want to sell them as quickly as they can and these auctions seemed to be the answer.
If you do not have an idea about these kinds of things, then it is recommended that you bring a mechanic friend a long with you. You can also ask for the VIN report and determine if the vehicle underwent some serious repair or accident.
Furthermore, there are several government seized cars for sale that you can choose from. Aside from the regular family vehicles, you can also choose among minivans, SUVs, motorcycles, and even trucks. They also come in various makes, models, designs, and colors. The decision is actually up to you, depending on your taste and preference. Search Find Used Opel Cars For Sale in Offaly to find a cars that suite your needs.

Second Hand Opel Car Sales Roscommon

The Smart ForFour For Economy And Style

Posted by on Aug-18-2010 under Automotive

When looking at the Smart ForFour,The front-wheel drive continues smart’s two-tone body-style theme, and with 10 external colours and three highlight choices, there’s over 30 combinations to choose from. All models come standard with electric front windows, remote central locking, air-conditioning, CD player and alloy wheels. The 1.5-litre version adds multi-function steering wheel, trip computer and of course, the bigger engine.There’s ample room for two adults in the front, and there’s enough leg and headroom to fit two adults in the rear. The steering wheel tilt adjustment can take a little of the sting out, however, making for a reasonable compromise overall. The cabin has a useful amount of oddments storage, including door pockets, a glove box and a cupholder under the stereo stack.The boot, such as it is, fits an overnight bag, or maybe four bags of shopping if you’re a light eater. The second row of seats can slide forward up to 15 cm to ease up room in the otherwise cramped boot at the expense of rear-seat legroom. It can also be folded flat for bigger loads.It comes with and electronic stability program that controls the wheels to regulate slip and lessen the chances of losing control. Four wheel disc brakes are standard, as is ABS (antilock brake system) with EBD The forfour sits on an incredibly long wheelbase which almost leaves the rear axle behind the car! This wide footprint endows the forfour with the on-road dynamism and responsiveness of a much bigger carAll models have the choice of a five-speed manual transmissions or an optional six-speed automatic with a sequential manual mode The former produces 70kW of power and just 125Nm of torque, which is sufficient to propel the 970kg forfour from rest to 100km/h in a claimed 10.8 seconds.Fuel consumption for this engine is a claimed 6.1 litres/.100km. Both models have a 47 litre fuel tank and smart recommends premium unleaded. Find Used Cars Dublin

Cars for sale Ulster 

Car Financing – The F&I Department

Posted by on Aug-17-2010 under Automotive

 

OK, you’ve finally gotten by means of the front end part of shopping for your car. You’ve gotten worked arduous performed some powerful negotiating and really feel like you might have negotiated an excellent and fair deal on your automotive buy and commerce-in. Now it’s time to move into the vendor’s F&I (finance and insurance coverage) department and go through the formality of signing the financing paper work on the back finish of the deal.

 

You’ll have noticed a few phrases: entrance finish and again end. I used these terms to illustrate some extent to you. From a automobile vendor perspective there are distinct components (revenue facilities) to every deal. The entrance finish of the deal is the new automobile price, your commerce in, any supplier add on’s that they obtained you to buy along with your new automobile, etc. All of this, most everyone seems to be indeed acquainted with. The second part of the deal, the again finish, is not a spot to let your guard down. The back finish is the F&I department. The F&I manager is every bit as liable for making sales numbers and profit margins as everybody else at the dealership and they are sales folks NOT monetary advisers and their function is to assist maximize the profit on the deal.

 

Don’t assume that you will be offered the absolute best interest rate you may get by the F&I manager. Fairly the other! Including a point or two (or more) to your contract interest rate above what you qualify for is a critical revenue maker for the dealer.

 

Also remember that your entire arduous work negotiating your deal on the front end has been by in large verbal and maybe a handshake. True, in consequence, you will have a signed consumers order or worksheet that the salesperson and or manager have signed off on, however it’s in the F&I department where all of this will get put into contract form.

 

Stay focused. Some sellers and salespeople could even imply that to ensure that the deal to get authorised, it’s important to finance by way of their finance department. You don’t. Actually, you probably have performed your homework and found a greater financing provide, it is best to take it. On the very least, you recognize what numbers you qualify for, and as such you should ask the automotive dealership to attempt to higher what you already have.

 

Learn the contract. Sound so primary, but most individuals don’t. Don’t simply assume that every little thing that you negotiated with the dealership on the entrance end will make its solution to the back finish of your car deal. Should you’ve had a protracted day negotiating to get the price you need, don’t give it all back within the F&I department by getting lazy at this very essential time.

 

Without query, the only largest mistake automotive buyers make is failing to prepare. That, and setting your expectation that automobile buying and the negotiating course of inside can take at best a number of hours to accomplish. Know that you are going to be on the dealership for some time might help you stay energized and focused. Do your homework. Know your credit score. Get your financing pre-approved and see if the dealer can beat what you already have. Be acquainted with all the areas of potential gross sales and revenue that the seller can probably land. Know what extras (if any) you’ll and will not pay for. Ensure that the contract in the F&I division reflects all the negotiations that you have labored to perform before hand. Then, lastly, remain on your toes and don’t drop your guard once in the F&I department.

 

Click Here:

aaautoroute

 

The Maserati GranSport A Drivers Dream

Posted by on Aug-16-2010 under Automotive

There’s only one car gearbox choice with the GranSport: Maserati’s race-derived Cambiocorsa paddle shift. A stubby little T-bar on the transmission tunnel selects reverse or first, and from there it’s all paddles — left for down, right for up. Of course, for those who struggle to find the energy to paddle-shift all the time, the transmission can mimic an automatic if you depress the ‘auto’ button behind the T-bar.Selecting ‘Sport’ mode increases the speed and ferocity of gearchanges by 35 per cent. It puts the GranSport’s active damping system (called SkyHook) into attack mode, removing any attempt at smoothing the road and focusing instead on keeping rubber in contact with bitumen at all possible times.Crisp, flowing lines cascade generously into voluptuous curves that break your heart from the pages of a glossy brochure. A softly lit cockpit, seemingly laid out by your own loving hand, has every driving control positioned just so. A subtle but pervading symphony swells into being, filling your ears and tingling your nervesWithout conscious thought your right hand squeezes the paddle against the leather steering wheel. First gear slips home with a slight bang, and you press the brake a little harder in response. The coupe holds, but it’s not happy. The tacho blips and bounces, searching for an easy idle but unable to settle. Four hundred horses strain at the bridle beneath your right foot. The stampede is imminent, and inevitable.That first time you unleash the full power of Maserati’s 4.two-litre V8 is without peer. That first time you slam up through the gears; the first time you push deep under brakes; and the first time you test the GranSport’s cornering mettle — is exactly like that other first time in every person’s life.. The Coupe squats and shoots again. Through this hellish show of awesome power your senses nearly shut down from overload. That guttural, booming exhaust note plays soundtrack to whiplash acceleration as the corner is quickly dragged towards you.You tip in, the front end wavers slightly, then bites. The coupe carves gracefully into the corner, pushing wide again as you feed the power on, but again only tenths. Search Mercedes E Class for the dream car.

Peugeot 3008