4 Reasons to Consider an All-Wheel Drive Vehicle

4 Reasons to Consider an All-Wheel Drive Vehicle

By Ron Haugen

The days when vehicle purchasers used to consider the brand and the miles a car could go before buying it are gone. Today, with so many enhancements and development when it comes to technology, the auto market is full of new customized options and gizmos that can make your life easier while driving your car.

All-Wheel is a technology that is ancient, but it has been re-mastered and now presents new functionalities and trademark names. It's also sold under different brands.
Back in the day, Rear wheel cars were the only ones available to customers worldwide. Yet, today, most of these cars aren't around, given that most cars have front wheel drive. The discussion that revolves around All Wheel, Front and also Rear Wheel drive - especially in the fans of the auto world.

All three might present benefits and challenges, but all it is a must today. It costs you a little more, but in terms of safety and performance, all-wheel drive is the best choice you can make, no matter where you live - in the city, in the country or even in the mountains.
While 4 wheel is usually an SUV term, that goes hand in hand with off-road use, all wheel drive is a car term that implies traction enhancement, and better performance in bad weather and adverse conditions.

Another way of driving: In all wheels driving, the torque created by the engine is directed to all four wheels, it doesn't matter if it's raining, snowing or sunny. These cars have a center differential that distributes power to wheels on the front and the back of the car - and with this system, all wheels turn, no matter the speed.

The difference between this and 4 wheel is that in this system, the power to the wheels is only active if there's need for it, or if the driver activates it. Yet it works all the time.

Power and traction: Given that all wheels have power at the same time, it makes this car safer and more powerful. It means it can be driven on snowy, slippery and muddy terrain. If you end up getting one of the wheels stuck, it's easy for the other three to get you out of that jam.

It's available everywhere: You now have all wheel drive everywhere, and they're very easy to buy with major brands. So, you can buy with your company of election.

Race around: Given the increased traction, you get better performance with all wheel drive cars - and this is exactly what you should get if you're planning on doing a small family Dakar or racing around in snowy or sandy terrain.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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5 Reasons to Change Your Spark Plugs Before They Fail

 

5 Reasons to Change Your Spark Plugs Before They Fail

By Ron Haugen

Car engines never cease to be a mystery for most population, and we can only identify there's a problem by the time the lights in our dashboard go insane and start beeping all over the place.
What most people don't know is that spark plugs are the key when it comes to starting your car, and are the reason why sometimes, in those cold mornings, your car might not start. What these little things do is, they produce the spark your car needs to start circulating.

But, like most things, they deteriorate over time and the electrodes that are part of the system do to, making if harder for the spark to jumpstart your car.
Many drivers never remember this, but you can replace( and should) replace your spark plugs before they start acting up.

• Your car will perform better: Every time you try to start your car, and it doesn't, you're wasting precious fuel. Also, you release more carbon emissions that are bad for your health and are creating some nasty climate changes. With worn out spark plugs, your car will lose performance, and become sluggish and slow starter. If you replace those plugs from time to time, it will instantly stop misfiring.

• No more cold starts!: If you're living in an area that is very cold, you have surely faced the problem of the cold start - in the morning, the car just coughs up a bit, and refuses to start moving.

This problem has everything to do with the spark plugs, and can be avoided by a simple exchange. By changing them, the ignition system won't have to create as much voltage for the spark to make contact.

• It protects the catalytic converter: Everytime your car misfire, a bit of fuel gets into the exaust system. This makes the catalytic converter to overheat, because temperatures at which they have to operate become too high.

If this converter fails, your engine can block and choke your engine - this causes your fuel economy to go awry, and will also downsize your engines power.

• They won't contaminate the engine: When your spark plugs wear out, they leak voltage to the engine parts that are close by, creating performance problems and deteriorating the engine faster.

• It costs you less: Weather it's time or moneywise, you can be sure you'll save up some dollars by beating those spark plugs to the punch. By keeping a good maintenance of the spark plugs, you won't need to worry about your car dying on you - and you going through all the trouble of calling a toe truck, all because of a tiny spark plug.

To avoid all these dire situations, you just need to do one thing: replace those spark plugs before it happens!

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.askronthecarguy.com
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5 Things to Do to Prepare Your Car for a Summer Road Trip

 5 Things to Do to Prepare Your 

Car for a Summer Road Trip

By Ron Haugen

If your car is reaching a certain age, it's only normal for you to worry about taking it on a long trip. Yet, what most people don't know is that long trips make less damage to your car than short course trips in the city.

The speed will be constant, you won't be needing to hit the brakes so often, making the car spend less gas and the motor won't have too much strain.

But, the last thing you want is to have a breakdown away from home. To avoid this, do a few simple checkups, the earlier the better - two to four weeks before departure would be the best choice.

• Repair major problems: If your car needs some big repairs, you should make them ASAP. This will give you time to see if there's something really wrong with the car, and you'll have the time to fix it.

A good thing to keep in check, is the coolant. If you're going to a warmer or colder place than what you're used to, your car may suffer with the changes. Ask for the mechanic to check if your vehicle is properly protected, and have it done as soon as possible.

• Check tires and spares: Make sure your tires have the proper pressure. If you have a low pressure, your tires will heat up, and this can cause them to blow up if you speed up. The best way to do this is by checking your user's manual, to see what the best pressure for your car. Also, check your tires tread.

A good thing to do beforehand is to check the spare tire - is it inflated? Also, check if the jack, wrench and everything you need to change a tire is in the trunk

• Check the glove compartment: Make sure you have your vehicles owner manual and registration. If you don't have the manual anymore, order a replacement or ask if they don't have it in PDF format on their websites.

Check the registration to see if won't expire while you're on your trip, and keep it in your wallet or in your pocket, in case your car is robbed. It's also a good idea to have a road atlas in there, just in case.

• Check the air filter: If your air filter is obstructed or clogged, it will make you spend more fuel. They aren't very expensive, and they're quite easy to change. If you haven't changed the filter ever, and your car is over 10,000 miles, it's time for a change.
• Join Triple A: If you don't have a roadside assistance program, consider triple A. in case of an emergency or if you have any problems, they'll tow it, put gas in it if you run out and change the tire if it goes flat.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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Why You Should Consider Safety Belts for Your Pets

Why You Should Consider Safety Belts for Your Pets

By Ron Haugen

Back in the day, dogs traveled in backseats of cars with one of the backseats windows open. The family trips consisted in making regular stops to give them some water and let them stretch out their legs.

Considering their safety alone, in case of an accident, they were in danger of being flung across the car and injuring themselves greatly.

Also, if we consider that a dog never stays put for long, you can have several problems that include distractions because your pet keeps trying to escape the backseat and you lose focus on the road increasing the possibility of an accident.

A new protection method that is being proved quite efficient is a seatbelt for your pooch. This is a good alternative to letting your dog run around freely in the backseat. It reduces the possibility of you being distracted while driving - reducing the possibilities of you having an accident.
It will also keep your pet safe in case of a sudden stop.

For most people, these harness shape seatbelts don't look humane and you might fear your pet can be hurt or too much restrained. But even the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends people use dog vehicle restraints.

They won't feel at ease at first, but like everything, they'll just need some training and guidance. Start by taking them on small drives, and reward them every time you put the seatbelt on, so it gets used to the new safety device.

A few pointers when buying a seatbelt for your pet: you should always check its quality. Make sure the buckling parts are metal, and not plastic. Also, check how much strength the seatbelt can take. A small dog needs at least 450 pounds of seatbelt strength to be safe when travelling.

You should always use your dog's seatbelt every time you travel, even if you're planning on traveling short distances and even if your pet struggles at first. It's the only way your pet will get used to it, and feel more comfortable. To make it easier, install a pet seatbelt on every car your pet travels on.

Don't stop trying if your dog doesn't like the seatbelt - it will take them only three to five trips before they relax. If they're too hyper, then try a natural stress reliever made specifically for pets. The more comfortable your pet is, the less it will resist the seatbelt. Bring a cozy shirt with you that will soften any bulky plastic.

For smaller pets, use a harness and not a collar, because it can damage the small neck bones of a little dog.

To keep your pets safe, put them some safety belts on. Only travel with your pets in the backseat, in the center. Keep them away from the airbags that deploy on the side of the car.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.askronthecarguy.com
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Ron the Car Guy- 3/19/2013

Video streaming by Ustream

One Hundred Dollar Rebate

http://www.westsideautopros.com Ron Haugen Presents Chevrolet Repair West Des Moines and Ford Repair Urbandale Tips With Today's Topic: One Hundred Dollar Rebate

Why It Is Important to Rotate Your Tires?

Why It Is Important to Rotate Your Tires?

By Ron Haugen

Rotating your vehicle's tires is a key component to proper vehicle operation. Improper wear on your tires can decrease fuel economy, cause your vehicle's suspension to wear down, and impair vehicle responsiveness in dangerous driving conditions. Let's touch on each of those topics to learn more about the importance of rotating your tires regularly, and properly.

Most vehicle and tire manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. There are many factors that can cause uneven wear and tear on your tires. Many of them have nothing to do with the quality of the actual tire purchased. For example, if your vehicle is front-wheel drive, this will cause your front tires to do the bulk of the work. Regularly rotating the front and back tires will even out the wear and tear on each tire. If you fail to rotate your tires regularly, you will begin to see degradation in the vehicle's overall fuel performance at the pump; effectively flushing money down the drain just by failing to perform regular maintenance and care.

Additionally, your vehicle's suspension and type of alignment will play heavily into how your tires wear in normal, everyday driving conditions. Certain suspension types result in varying tugs and pulls on your tires as you brake and accelerate. Routine tire rotation will even out the effects of your vehicle's suspension on the tires. As an added benefit, regular tire rotation will make driving your car more pleasurable. You will find that with routine rotations, you don't have to fight the steering wheel as much to drive. The car is more responsive and seems to handle better. You've heard the phrase "it corners like it's on rails." Well, let's not try that - but the gist here is that your car seems to respond to your every whim and command effortlessly. Now that's performance!

Speaking of responsiveness and performance, in dangerous driving conditions such as high winds, flash floods, snow storms, or just roads that are beat up with potholes, regular tire rotation is critical to your vehicle's performance. Even the slightest delay in response to turning suddenly or braking quickly can be the difference between a life and death situation. You are commanding a thousand pound machine to keep you and your loved ones safe. It is important to treat it with the respect it deserves. The research behind slower response times on worn tires is massive. It's not a risk worth taking.

Regular tire rotation will extend the overall life of your tires - therefore saving you money in the long run. As we've reviewed the reasons for making this the one maintenance checklist item you never skip can mean many happy years of driving your car safely and pleasurably.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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Top 5 Reasons to Select an ASE Certified Mechanic to Repair Your Car

 Top 5 Reasons to Select an ASE 

Certified Mechanic to Repair Your Car

By Ron Haugen

It's time. Your car needs a repair and you didn't plan for it ahead - tsk, tsk. Now you need to find a good, dependable, quality mechanic, stat! Where do you go? How do you choose? There are many ways to evaluate mechanics and compare one against another, but one key way is to select an ASE Certified Mechanic. You've probably heard the phrase "ASE Certified" in relation to vehicles before, but what does it mean and why is it good? It refers to the National Institute for Automobile Service Excellence. The certification has been in existence since 1972 and here's all you need to know about why you should only select an ASE Certified Mechanic to repair your car.

1) ASE Certified mechanics have to pass a specialized exam. There are eight different specialties available for a mechanic to choose to be certified in. The specialization could be in specific areas such as: engine repair, automotive trans/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical / electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, or engine performance. Now, just passing an exam doesn't necessarily make a mechanic qualified to work on your car; however, it does show that they have been educated in the specifics of how to diagnose and repair the components contained within their chosen specialty.

2) To be ASE Certified, you can't just pass the exam. One is also required to have at least two years of 'relevant' work experience. Now we're talking! So they have to pass a test and then work in the field for at least two years before they are eligible to be certified by the ASE.

3) The ASE also has higher levels of education, seriously, for mechanics. That's something to be impressed with in any profession. The ability to, and the subsequent decision to pursue continuing education to become a Certified Master Mechanic shows me that this mechanic both loves his craft and appreciates that it's an ever-changing field with these fast-paced technology advancements in the auto-making industry. An Master Mechanic has passed all eight specialty exams!

4) Ethics. In addition to the training and work-requirements, an ASE Certified Mechanic is held accountable to a commitment he or she has made to only engage in ethical business practices. Finally! A mechanic we can trust!

5) ASE Certified Mechanics are sought after by the most reputable dealerships and garages; why wouldn't you demand the same level of professionalism and training that others in the industry require?

Seriously though, most mechanics are good honest citizens just trying to make a living doing something they enjoy or have always been good at. But we've all heard the horror stories of shiesters and crooks in the auto mechanic industry, and quite frankly it's made us gun-shy. Asking for a mechanics certifications and only choosing ASE Certified Mechanics do perform your auto repairs will save you a tremendous amount of worry and headaches down the road. It's nice to just not have to worry about whether it's being done right and whether you're being treated fair. An ASE Certified Mechanic takes the stress out of car repairs.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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Top 5 Benefits of a Hybrid Vehicle

Top 5 Benefits of a Hybrid Vehicle

By Ron Haugen

It seems hybrid cars are wildly gaining popularity. During your next car search do you ever wonder: Would you be happy in a hybrid vehicle? Are they cool? Do they really help the environment as much as everyone says? There are many considerations when purchasing a new car, and here are the top 5 benefits of seriously adding a hybrid vehicle to your list of top choices.

1) Fuel Economy

There is absolutely no debate that hybrid cars are more fuel efficient than their all gas counterparts. Typical hybrid gas mileage ranges from 40-50 miles per gallon. Considering that there are still all gas vehicles on your dealer's new car lot only getting 15-20 miles per gallon, fuel economy is a blessing to your hectic schedule and routine. Stopping at the dreaded gas pump less often = freedom!

2) Savings on at the pump

With the fuel economy mentioned above, one might still wonder if a hybrid vehicle, which still requires some gasoline, would a hybrid vehicle in your garage really amount to much savings at all on your monthly fuel bill. Since a hybrid vehicle only uses gas when driving over 40 miles per hour or when your battery needs charging, you could save a tremendous amount of dough on your gas bill each month. The key factor that would decide overall savings is how much stop and go city driving you do versus how much highway driving. The electric battery powers the vehicle at stops and during traditional stop and go city driving; thereby, saving you gallons of gas until you get on the highway.

3) Environmental benefits

What? You didn't realize that a hybrid is good for the environment? Seriously though, you obviously were already aware of the plethora of research and statistics that support electric car vehicles (and their hybrid cousins) as producing an astounding lesser amount of harmful fuel emissions. This is a key factor in global warming. Yes, a hybrid car is a wonderful alternative for your green initiatives.

4) Flexibility

Hybrid vehicles, unlike their all electric counterparts, don't have to be charged. As it turns out, the battery gets charged when you drive through two nifty pieces of technology. The brakes use a cool technology method of charging your battery during braking, stopping at a red light, idling, etc. We'll expand on this below. However, an additional way that your battery gets charged while you drive is that when your vehicle switches over to the gas engine, it also charges the battery. So driving on the highway all the way home from a long day at work is actually recharging your battery, too!

5) Tax Savings

Only two things are sure in life: death and taxes. But purchasing a hybrid vehicle can save you money on your tax bill to Uncle Sam. There are federal tax credits, as well as state and local tax credits as well, for taxpayers who purchase a hybrid vehicle.

These are just a few of the many benefits of considering buying a hybrid vehicle the next time you go car shopping.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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The Top Three Benefits of Changing Transmission Fluid

The Top Three Benefits of Changing Transmission Fluid
By Ron Haugen

There has always been some debate on the pros and cons of changing your transmission fluid on a routine basis, per your vehicle owner's manual recommendation. One of the many rumored suspicions is that doing so will open your car up to having dreaded transmission issues sooner. To debunk those conspiracy theories, let's get into the meat of the topic and explore, together, why it absolutely makes sense to change it regularly; and how not doing so could actually cause your car to run sluggishly - potentially costing you precious pennies in the long run!
 
1) Heat is the enemy

The number one reason that manufacturers recommend you change your transmission fluid regularly is because it degrades as it continually heats up during driving. There are exhaustive studies about the precise temperatures in which its effectiveness actually wanes. Suffice it to say that most owner's manuals duly recommend changing your fluid every 30,000 miles. There is one exception to this rule: newer vehicles using Dexron III ATF fluid can often go up to 100,000 miles before needing to be changed. As you drive, and the transmission heats up, the viscosity of your fluid changes; over time, this heat causes transmissions to burn up and this is the single-most cause of transmission repairs today - burned up transmissions.

2) Gunk and sludge

As your transmission continues to heat up and it continues to break down, your car's transmission components begin to get bogged down with gunk and sludge. You don't need to be a rocket scientist to know that gunk and sludge are going to clog up your transmission gears, causing unnatural wear and tear on your vehicle's transmission. If you want your transmission to continue to operate smoothly, it is vital to keep it clean.

3) Leaky seals and putrid odors

No, I'm not talking about a horror flick here. A well-maintained machine is one whose owner regularly checks the transmission fluid levels - yes, using the dipstick! You should ideally check your transmission fluid level when your engine is warm and idling. Transmission fluid should be bright red and should smell sweet, not putrid or rancid. It shouldn't be brown or black or even dark red. It should look like the tip of the spindle after Sleeping Beauty pricked her finger. If your transmission fluid level is low, or the color is not right, it's time to change your transmission fluid and check (or have checked by the mechanic) all of the seals around the transmission for leaks.

If you want your transmission to last throughout the life of the car, it is imperative that you change your transmission fluid regularly, following your owner's manual guidelines and a few common sense rules. In today's world of disposable everything - neglecting your transmission can be a rude awakening to your wallet. The potential costs associated with ignoring the routine maintenance guidelines on your transmission could total thousands of dollars that would be better spent on a nice, warm vacation to a sunny spot this summer.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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Benefits of Using an Independent Repair Shop Over a Dealership

Benefits of Using an Independent Repair Shop Over a Dealership
By Ron Haugen

You just barely bought your car and it's already time to think about whether to be loyal to the dealership for your ongoing maintenance and care, or to find a reputable independent repair shop to provide all of your automotive repair and maintenance needs. There are many advantages and disadvantages of either option. However, your local repair shop may just win your heart, and your business.

For starters, they have a depth of knowledge surrounding all types of vehicles and vehicle maintenance or repair situations, not just the particular makes and models currently being sold and serviced by your dealer. When you call and say your car is making a funny noise that sounds sort of like a 'whirring and clicking' sound, typically an established independent repair shop can hone in quickly on the potential suspect; possibly saving you money on both diagnostic and long-term repair bills.

It's a hard truth that many dealership garages are staffed by younger, less experienced mechanics. That's not meant to be a knock against them. They do have the leverage of the dealership behind them. But typically an independent repair shop owner has years of auto mechanic repairs under their belt; and to boot they frequently started out at a dealership to get their certifications and experience before branching out on their own to have the American dream and become their own boss.

Your local repair shop probably has the corner on providing its clients with personal, individualized service. They know your spouse's name, your children's names and where they go to school, what your dream car is, how long you've had your current car, what your last car was, why you sold it, what other cars you own and what your favorite snack is out of the vending machine! Now none of that is necessarily solely a good enough reason to give your business to the local guy, but in today's fast-paced world there is a slowly simmering trend towards moving back to personalized service with an extra touch.

When you need a little leeway, like the shop staying open a little later so you can get there in time to pick up or drop off your vehicle, your independent shop is more likely to care, and they are also easier to get a hold of a live person. Don't get me wrong, I'm a technology geek. I love to point and click and buy or research all day long. But when I need to talk to a person, my biggest pet-peeve is getting routed through the dreaded phone menu tree.

When it comes right down to it, whether you take your car to the dealership or to a local independent repair shop for your ongoing maintenance and repair needs is entirely a personal decision. However, one key factor that we haven't touched on yet is that typically an independent guy is going to cost you less than the dealer. There's also the added benefit of possibly being able to barter for services, and it's hard to put a cap on that price savings during the entire life of your car. Look around in your area and see if there are any independent repair shops in the neighborhood. If there are, ask around, look online for reviews, go down there and introduce yourself. You may just find that you and your car are right where you belong.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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5 Reasons to Consider Purchasing a Diesel Vehicle

By Ron Haugen
When purchasing your next car, you may want to consider a diesel vehicle. There are many arguments both for and against diesel cars. However, many of the arguments are outdated and point to concerns or issues with diesel engines that no longer exist in today's refined technology. When diesel engines were popular in the 70's, there were many environmental concerns regarding their emissions. Those concerns have all but been vanquished. Here are 5 reasons to consider diesel when purchasing your next vehicle.

1. Long-term: performance and resale value

Today, just like in the heyday of the 70's when diesels first grew to popularity, diesel cars can be relied on to last for years. Many diesel vehicle owners expect to still be driving their car 10 or more years from now. In fact, diesel engines frequently reach over 200,000 miles while still performing well. In this world of disposable everything, purchasing a car that will pass the test of time and be a reliable investment, is a smart bet. Additionally, diesel vehicles have much higher resale values than their gas counterparts. So even if you still live in a disposable world and change your car frequently, you can rest easy knowing that when you're ready to trade in your car for a newer model, your investment will have held its value and your wallet will thank you.

2. Fuel economy

Speaking of your pocketbook; diesel engines are more fuel efficient than gas engines. Studies show that diesel engines are between 30 and 35% more efficient than gas engines, which means fewer stops at the pump and more miles per tank.

3. Savings on gas prices

With the fuel economy mentioned above, one might still wonder if the higher diesel prices really amount to much savings. Historically, diesel prices have never been more than 30% higher than gas prices, so just doing simple math proves that you will save plenty of dough on your monthly gas bill. And as gas prices continue to rise, any opportunity to put a cap on that expenditure is a welcome one.

4. Environmental benefits

What? Diesel engines are better for the environment than gas engines? It's very important to point out that the diesel engines of today are nothing like the ones from the '70s. Today's diesel engines are cleaner and produce less environmental waste than gas engines. Yes, that's right. Diesel engines in today's vehicles are more friendly on the environment than today's gas vehicles are. It's also a proven scientific fact that the less often you open that gas cap to refill, the better it is on the environment. Each time you fill up, harmful gas emissions are released.

5. Power

Diesel engines are known to have more power than gas engines. While that means you and your lead foot might be on the lower end of the estimated miles per gallon quote, it means you will have a sweet ride with quite a bit of power under the hood.

These are just a few of the many reasons to consider buying a diesel vehicle when making your next car purchase. So when you're doing your shopping and head to the dealer, be sure to check out their diesel options as well.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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Top 5 Reasons to Use Nitrogen in Your Tires

Top 5 Reasons to Use Nitrogen in Your Tires

By Ron Haugen

These days, with the economy being so poor, and gas prices being so high, we all want to do what we can in order to save those extra dollars. You never know when a surprise expense can pop up seemingly out of nowhere, leaving you with a bill and not a lot of time in which to pay it. Every little bit helps, and the money that you save on fuel can most certainly go a long way toward helping to cover other expenses. Below, you will find the top five reasons why you should use nitrogen in your tires-reasons good enough to have converted noted car enthusiast Jay Leno to using nitrogen for all of the vehicles in his extensive, and expensive, collection.

Reason Number One: Increase Fuel Economy

Ever find yourself wishing you could get more miles to the gallon? Feel as if you are always at the pump, spending more money just to keep your vehicle running? Well, worry no longer. It has been proven that nitrogen has far better fuel economy than just plain air. And the more money you save at the pump, the more you can diversify your earnings. Using less gas per mile means that your car will go longer distances using less resources, and will ultimately cost less per mile to drive than before.

Reason Number Two: Better for the Environment

You may be asking yourself; how is nitrogen better than air? After all, isn't air literally everywhere in the world? We breathe it, we use it to cool ourselves, we even use it to power things. So how can another gas be safer and greener then air? The answer is simple, and relates closely to the answer to reason number one; the last gas your vehicle has to use, the less oil it burns, the less damage you do to the environment and the greener your vehicle is. And because nitrogen allows your vehicle to do more while using up less resources, you can bet that it is greener than oxygen by far.

Reason Number Three: Prolonging Your Tires

Tires are expensive. Few people know that oxygen damages the inner liner of your tires, but it is true. With nitrogen, your tires will be damaged less and ultimately last far longer, allowing you to potentially save hundreds.

Reason Number Four: Better Handling, Better Traction

NASCAR and Indy Racing use nitrogen for its better handling and traction abilities. The better your vehicle handles, the more traction it gets from the road, the safer it will be to drive year round.

Reason Number Five: Stability

Various tests have proven that nitrogen is a far more stable gas than oxygen when used to inflate an object, tires included. More stability means fewer trips to go fill up your tires at the gas station and improved safety, as you won't have to worry about deflating wheels nearly as much as with oxygen.

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The Top 5 Reasons to Use Synthetic Motor Oil

The Top 5 Reasons to Use Synthetic Motor Oil

By Ron Haugen

If you are a new car owner, or the owner of a new car, chances are you have thought about oil. After all, if you want your engine to run well, and efficiently, you are going to have to make it a top priority to check your motor oil regularly to ensure that it isn't burnt, or low. And chances are, you have probably also heard the tales of synthetic oil, this new oil not made from minerals. Many claim it gives better performance, and tests have shown this to be true. But why should you use synthetic motor oil? Well, we'll give you five reasons why.

Reason Number One: Money

Money is a top priority for most. The more you can save, the more often you can afford to buy the things that you like. Saving money also allows you to put more away in to your savings for your future. Synthetic oil is hands down cheaper than mineral oil. Why is this? Because mineral oil is a natural (albeit diluted by the time it reaches your hands) resource that is quickly growing scarcer and scarcer, making the price of it rise steadily, while synthetic oil lasts longer.

Reason Number Two: Performance

Everyone cares about their engine performance far more than they let on. It is a proven fact; people car about the way their cars run because their cars are investments, and everyone wants to get the most out of an investment, right? With synthetic oil, engine performance improves greatly. This is because synthetic oil is cleaner, more efficient, and it makes your engine work less. New car owners commonly choose synthetic engine oil for this very reason; it keeps their new engine running like new.

Reason Number Three: Easy Flowing

Flow is a real problem with some oils. This is because they are either so thick, or so filled with impurities, that they don't flow through your engine properly. This can cause a whole host of problems, none of which should be your priority to rush right in to. Synthetic oil flows easily through your engine, which is a quality that makes if perfect for mid-mileage vehicles and especially for newer performance vehicles, as it means that the engine has to do far less work.

Reason Number Four: Longer Lasting

It has been proven time and time again in order comparison tests that synthetic motor oil lasts far longer than mineral engine oil. This is because it takes far longer for synthetic oil to heat up to a degree where it could be damaged, and has better evaporation.

Reason Number Five: Less Engine Wear

Synthetic oil is slipper. Slippery oil means less engine wear. Less engine wear means that your engine lasts longer. A longer lasting engine means a longer lasting car, and ultimately this means that you get more bang for the buck from your vehicle, just as you do from your synthetic motor oil.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
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Top 5 Benefits of Winter Snow Tires

Top 5 Benefits of Winter Snow Tires

By Ron Haugen

Winter is coming, and that means snow will be falling and coating the roads in abundance. Driving conditions worsen considerably in the winter time, meaning that safety becomes more of a priority for most than during the usual, dry seasons. When it comes to driving in these tricky conditions, you want to ensure that you have the best handling possible. Listed below are the top 5 reasons that come this winter, you should get out and grab a set of winter snow tires.

Reason Number One: Less Expensive than Crashing

It's a bit morbid, but it is true; what do you think will cost you less? Is it getting a set of snow tires for your vehicle, or paying the hospital and/or insurance bills associated with a winter time crash caused by losing control of your vehicle on a snowy road? Hopefully your money is riding on the first. Winter snow tires are made specifically for winter, and are specialized to handle the seasons in a fashion that, many times, regular tires can not.

Reason Number Two: Safety

Closely related to reason number one, safety is of the utmost importance in the winter time. The roads can get pretty bad, and depending on where you live, the plows may not do the job you might wish for. Winter tires are a perfect way to keep your family safe during the winter season. If you are a mother or father, and you constantly drive your kids to and from school or sports, even during the winter, a good set of winter snow tires should be one of your top priorities when the season comes.
Reason Number Three: Better Grip
Better grip means less slippage, and when it comes to the snow, you know how slippery roads can get. Beyond just the snow, ice and slush and even melted water come in to play during the winter time. If you want to ensure that your vehicle is able to handle anything thrown at it in the winter, then winter snow tires should be on your "to buy" list.

Reason Number Four: Better Breaking

Even if you have great breaks, doesn't mean your tires will follow suit when you step on them and try and stop your vehicle in the snow. Snow tires are designed to have better braking capabilities, meaning that they will stop easier and quicker in the snow than regular tires will. And as many drivers know, the difference between stopping on time and stopping too late can sometimes be fractional, but of significant impact. Better braking never hurt anyone, especially not in the winter.

Reason Number Five: They Last

You don't have to chuck out your winter snow tires when the seasons change. In fact, many tire manufacturers even suggest that you use these tires only during the winter time. A set can last you as long as you own a vehicle that they fit, and you can easily change to your regular tires when winter is over.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
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The Top 5 Benefits of Xenon Headlights

By Ron Haugen


Your headlights have more than one purpose. Sure they are meant to keep your safe by allowing you to see the road in front of you when it is dark outside. But they also keep you safe by alerting other drivers to your presence and intention, meaning that they do just as much to prevent collisions as you, the driver, do.

So you want to ensure that your headlights are bright enough to be seen by all the other drivers on the road, but also that they are not so blind as to blind them and cause other safety concerns. Below are the top 5 benefits of switching to Xenon headlights.

Benefit Number One: More for the Money

There is not much difference in price between a regular halogen headlight and a Xenon headlight, however you are getting far more for the money because Xenon headlights are made to higher standards. Because Xenon headlights are brighter and designed to last longer, these headlights will, over time, cost you less as you will not have to replace the lights nearly as frequently as you would have to with traditional halogen headlights.

Benefit Number Two: Longer Life

Tying in to the first benefit, a longer life goes beyond just saving money. If course, you do save some extra bucks by having to purchase replacement lights less frequently, but a longer life means more. It is proven that lights normally last longer when they have less output, thus meaning that it takes less to power them, meaning overall these lights are going to be less taxing on your vehicle as a whole.

Benefit Number Three: Brighter Lights

One of the most noted benefits of Xenon headlights is that they are far brighter than halogen headlights. However, the good thing about them is that while they are brighter, they are not blinding. This makes them perfect for elderly drivers, and those who drive at night. It also makes it perfect if you live in an area that is densely wooded, as your headlights will be able to pierce through the trees, meaning other drivers will see you coming from farther away.

Benefit Number Four: Safety

Perhaps the most beneficial aspect of Xenon headlights is that they are safer. Because they are brighter, and they last longer, they have an increased safety aspect that makes them perfect for any driver. If you have children who do sports, you know how scary it can be at times driving them around in the winter, as it gets dark early. With Xenon headlights, you will be able to rest easy knowing that your headlights are brighter.

Benefit Number Five: Color and Clarity

Many times, halogen lights are murky, muddy yellow, making it difficult for drivers to see in the winter time, in the rain, and at night. Xenon headlights are white, strikingly so, and have far more clarity, cutting through falling rain and falling snow with ease, allowing you to see.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
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The 5 Benefits to Changing Your Automatic Transmission Fluid

The 5 Benefits to Changing Your Automatic Transmission Fluid

By Ron Haugen


One of the most commonly over looked aspects of a vehicle is the transmission. Many people tend to either ignore their transmission all together, or simply do not understand how it works. And that is fine and dandy until the day comes that things start to get ugly with it. A busted transmission is another way of saying a car that isn't going to be running any time soon without some serious work. The transmission is the power source, and it provides proper application of the power of your vehicle. So if you want to ensure your vehicle's transmission lasts just as long as possible (and most will last the entire vehicle's life time if maintained properly), then you will want to get on top of changing your automatic transmission fluid.

Benefit Number One: Preventing Lock Up

Odds are you know what tetanus is, because it is commonly referred to as "lock jaw." You would never want to have lock jaw. Not only would it be painful, but it would be inconvenient. Well, it would surprise you to know that it would be twice as inconvenient if your vehicle got lock jaw. Lock up happens when your vehicle's transmission gets so hot that your vehicle simply shuts down. It no longer runs. Changing your automatic transmission fluid when it turns black can prevent this happening to your car.

Benefit Number Two: Saving Money

Who doesn't like saving money? Literally every person you meet does things to save money, unless they've got tons to throw around or are children. Usually, they amount to the same. Changing your automatic transmission fluid when it turns black (not flushing it-flushing your automatic transmission fluid can be dangerous to your vehicle, tantamount to bleeding it dry then trying to fill it back up with new blood) can help prevent most transmission problems from occurring, meaning you save the woes of a blown transmission.

Benefit Number Three: Run Cleaner

Changing your automatic transmission fluid, and using the right fluid, can make your engine run cleaner and more efficiently than it has since it was brand new. This means better fuel economy (which we'll get to next) and better oil usage. However, using the wrong fluid, any fluid not recommended by the manufacturer for your specific make and model, can damage your transmission greatly, so be sure to check.

Benefit Number Four: Better Fuel Economy

Less work means less wear. Less wear means your transmission, and your engine, last longer. Changing your automatic transmission fluid when it turns black can help you to keep your transmission running strong for a very long time, making your vehicle more fuel efficient.

Benefit Number Five: Cost Effective

What do you think costs less: a new transmission, or automatic transmission fluid? Hopefully, you went with the latter choice. A new transmission is expensive, while automatic transmission fluid is relatively cheap in comparison, making taking care of your transmission a no brainer.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
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Ford Repairs Des Moines | Ford Repairs Des Moines

http://www.westsideautopros.com Ron Haugen Presents Ford Repair Des Moines and Ford Repair Urbandale Tips With Today's Topic: Ford Repairs Des Moines