All About Automotive Detailing

By Fei Lim

Automotive detailing can be one of the most important jobs at vehicle dealerships or detailing shops. Whether a detailer is preparing the vehicle for a sales display or getting it ready for its new owner, it's sometimes that first impression of the vehicle that makes automotive detailing so significant.

Good automotive detailers will know the areas on vehicles that a bad detailer can miss. Areas such as door jams, window seals, and engine cleaning are signs that you got a good detail job. Trade-in vehicles that need to be detailed are perhaps the most important as a good detail can affect its retail value. No one wants to buy a used vehicle, no matter what the performance quality, if it hasn't been detailed properly.

Soiled upholstery and carpet stains can also prevent resale value but using the right products can show a drastic improvement if done correctly. Tobacco or smoking in a vehicle are no longer challenges for the good automotive detailer. Various manufacturers are now producing machines such as Ionizers that when placed in a vehicle for a small period of time can take out the effects of smoking smells.

Automotive detailing products are important. Products or mitts that can scratch, wear out the paint, or dull chrome should not be used and a good automotive detailer will know which products to avoid.

Automotive detailing product salespeople who promote their products and claim they are the best visit many dealerships. Beyond what products auto detailers are using, a customer should look at the detail shop or detail area. Is it clean? Are the products organized, or are the detailers running back and forth, sharing products, or worse, leaving the detail area looking for their equipment? Check them out for cleanliness and accessibility of the automotive detailing items they use-are they nearby?

A good automotive detailer will use tools such as small brushes with soft bristles for vent cleaning. Detailing tools that have small rubber tips are good for cleaning dirt out of seams and trim. Wheel and tire brushes are also a must. Some products such as mitts and brushes are now being offered by the manufacturers with color-coding. This color-coding helps the detailer identify which is the best tool for the process in a quick and easy manner. Bottles of cleaners should also be color-coded for automotive detailing use. Grabbing the wrong solution can be detrimental to the detailer if he is in a hurry. The color-coding process has eliminated the mistakes sometimes made in the automotive detailing business.

Some automotive detailing shops even offer services that will check your wiper blades and other viewable parts that can easily be replaced by a detailer at a lower cost than a mechanic or technician.

A big job for the automotive detailer is new vehicle preparation. If a dealer sells new vehicles, as they are shipped in, they are inevitably full of dust, debris and, road wear from the shipping process. Not only is the automotive detailer responsible for cleaning the new vehicle, most car dealerships will provide them with a checklist of other items to check for operation. The checklist can include items such as setting the clock and radio, testing the key fobs to see if they are working correctly, removing the new vehicle plastic and stickers, and, taking the vehicle on a small test drive to check wipers, air-conditioning and, other essential elements.

Probably the last thing a good automotive detailer can offer is the trip to the gas pump to fill your vehicle up with a full tank. If your detailing company or dealership offers this, it may save you dollars. Many dealerships receive gasoline discounts and are happy to pass them along to the customer to keep them coming back, so check that out when you visit your automotive detailer or dealership.

Automotive detailing takes a lot if care. People who work in this area should be the kind of people who love the detailing process and the outcomes they achieve. They are people who have high levels of energy and communication skills to ensure the customer is getting what they want. If chosen right, the good automotive detailer can make all the difference in that new, used, or customer vehicle. Good automotive detailers will keep customers coming back to any shop and are sometimes overlooked for the talents they possess.

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Choosing an Automobile Style That is Right For You

By Billings Farnsworth

If you're looking for a new vehicle, with the many models from different manufacturers that are available you should be able to find one that is a style that suits you. Or maybe you want a used vehicle? Whichever way you should be able to find something that you will be happy with for years.

First let's look at some of the new models of Chrysler's. For sedans you have a choice of the 300, Sebring, and of course the ever popular PT cruiser. SUV, crossover and mini-vans you can choose between the Town & Country, Pacifica, and the Aspen. Don't forget the coupes and convertible choices. You have the Sebring convertible, PT cruiser convertible, and the Crossfire.

Other domestic manufacturer offerings are just as varied with GM and Ford each drastically reshaping at least a few of their models to attract younger buyers, "hip" buyers with money, and the environmentally conscience buyer who tends to be better educated and earn a higher income than the average car buyer.

On Chrysler's website they have an announcement for a new hybrid vehicle that is coming soon called the Aspen hybrid. With all the hype for hybrids it's a sure bet that this new vehicle by Chrysler -- adding on to the existing similar models of Toyota's Highlander hybrid, Ford's Escape hybrid, and Chevy's Tahoe hybrid -- will be a great seller.

However, if you are truly fuel conscience, you might prefer a hybrid coupe such as the Honda Insight (which is no longer being manufactured), Honda Civic hybrid, or Toyota Prius. New hybrid coupe models coming forth include the Honda CR-Z and Nissan Altima. Ford, meanwhile, is working on a similar concept car known as the Reflex.

It's best to pick out a few styles you like and study a bit more about them such as the safety features, and also the mpg of the vehicle. You might be surprised by what you find out.

And don't forget about price and overall, long-term affordability. Of course one of the most important things in this economy is the cost of the vehicle. Just because you're quoted a price at one dealership it doesn't mean you won't be able to find the same vehicle someplace else for a much cheaper price.

Check out a few dealerships and see if one will give you a better deal than the other. At times you might be able to play each dealership against each other and get an even better price then you thought was possible. Good luck in your search for a new domestic GM, Ford, or Chrysler. Or if you prefer an import: Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, VW, as well as the many other less common manufacturers and exotic and exclusive car makers such as Maserati, Maybach, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, and so forth.

The Brent Brown Auto Group (http://www.brentbrownauto.com) runs several dealerships, including Chrysler Provo in Utah, to offer a variety of virtually every modern-day car manufacturer so you can find the perfect vehicle. Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.

How Automatic Transmission Oil Has Evolved

By Fei Lim

Once life and automobiles were both so simple and uncomplicated and times were good. The engine in your car was big and blocky and you saw instantly where the plugs were located. You could check hoses and fluids without disconnecting half the motor first. When you had to get gas, you had one or two choices and there was always someone there, smiling and filling the tank for you....and checking the oil. If you happened to need a little oil to top it off and you only had two types of oil that were available for all vehicles.

During this wonderful and not too modern, days in the past when you had to select one type of oil you would choose either Type A or Type F, depending on what you were driving. Automakers believed in simplicity then too. If you had a Ford and you knew how to spell the name, then you knew that you needed Type F oil. The Type oil pretty much covered any other machine requiring oil during those years.

Today there are shelves that display dozens of oils, a customer can walk into an auto store and find specific oil that has been created for almost every car company. If your car has an automatic transmission then it is critical that you know which of these oils your car requires.

If the wrong type of oil is added to an automatic transmission, it can create some shifting problems. Any problem involving shifting only heightens the stress of the gears. Far worse than a shifting problem, is the fact that you could end up damaging your transmission. There have been cars that had to have the entire transmission removed and a new one installed due to incorrect oil products.

The old Type A -transmission oil has undergone a complete transformation over the years and is now known as ATF or Dexron Automatic Transmission Fluid. ATF oil has gone through steady changes and improvements, but it remains a very dependable and quality car additive.

Type A Transmission Fluid was first marketed as Dexron and this product soon gave way to Dexron II .This changed once again to became Dexron IIE in the 90s.This version had extra performance enhancers which were used to improve the viscosity of the oil.

It was seen that the additions of enhancers were very useful for achieving better performance with the shifter and transmission solenoids. The shifter solenoids were computer controlled and the ones in the transmission were controlled by pressure. Later in the 90s, Dexron IIE was reformulated and introduced as Dexron III, which is the one that is presently used.

At least there is an easy answer to the query about which type of oil to use in many of today's automatic t transmissions. Regardless of the designation (II, IIE or III), Dexron III is available today for any vehicle that requires a Dexron formula. Dexron III can be substituted for any of its earlier relatives.

Dexron has become an industry standard for almost all of the automakers. The entire production line of General Motors cars and trucks require this type of oil. Even automobiles that are produced by foreign manufacturers use Dexron. This oil is also put into Fords and the Chrysler Vehicles that were made through 96. This multipurpose workhorse oil has even been used in power steering units and hydraulic machinery.

Ford autos and trucks up until 1996 were using the Type F oil but so were some other manufacturers. The addition of some special ingredients made Type F oil the perfect match to balance the friction created in the automatic transmission's clutch plates.

One of the cautions that came about the Type F oil was an alert for users so that they would become aware of the strength and concentration of this one oil. The added boosters to the Type F oil made it so strong that 1L of Type F could be added to 5 L of Dixon oil and all of the oil would have the characteristic qualities of Type F oil.

In some cars, the Type F oil would noticeably slow down and create a drag in the transmission's smoothly functioning gears. The gears would have to work harder to get the job done. Consumers need to be aware that the MERCON ATF and the Type F oil are not compatible at all.

Although Chrysler has always had their own ATF specifications, they have also listed Dexron oil as an acceptable replacement. That changed The Honda vehicles use engine oil for automatic transmissions in a number of their cars. There is an automatic transmission that is found in cars in Europe and Asia that only uses ESSO LT71141 or T-IV ATF. There are a number of synthetic oils that are being marketed today and you should always check for compatibility before using.

By 1997, Chrysler began to use ATF+3 oil. This oil can be substituted for ATF+2, ATF PLUS Type 7176 ATF. This is a type of oil that is used by many of the Mitsubishi and Hyundai models.

Most drivers no longer change their own vehicle's oil and the garages and mechanics are familiar with the specs and requirements of cars and trucks. If someone should have to add oil for some reason, they can look in the owner's manual and it will list what kinds of oil and how much is required for your particular auto. Dealerships and most auto shops will be helpful and you can check online if all else has failed to produce the information that you need.

Car hobbyists may remember that today's automatic transmission was originally brought to the market by the Oldsmobile Company. It was quite unusual and more of a curiosity when it was first debuted in public. That cumbersome 3 speed metal hulk bears no resemblance to its compact, high tech descendant, but the Oldsmobile Company was responsible for the prototype and the first working models that were being driven in public before WWII.

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Just So You Know - A Few Tips to Buy Your Camaro Safely

By David Atkin

Here are a few tips to buy your classic camaro safely, as you know there are a lot of people cloning camaro's , and when that happens you also find that there are a lot of people that can't refuse to try and rip you off, just so you don't become a statistic, I'll give you a few things to look for.

First of all if you're looking at a 1969 model, and the car you looking at is an SS, or a Z/28 camaro, easy to tell if it's real or not, there are some things that most rip off artists will over look during the build of the clone that their going to try to rip you off with.

First let's say one thing here, there is nothing wrong with a person building a clone of their favorite camaro, unless they decide to sell it, and try to rip of the person buying it, OK now, first of all if the car is a Z/28 camaro and it's represented as original it must have a 302 CI engine in it.

You can tell this by looking at the rpo code of the car, the rpo code is located on the passenger side of of the engine block on a machined pad in front of the cylinder head, you can't miss it, if you don't see one there, it may be covered in grease, just clean it off, and if it's a genuine 1969 Z/28 it will have the letters DZ in the rpo code.

A 1968, or 1967 would have the letters MO in the rpo code, now the other area on the engine that you should look at is the casting number, because this number cannot be ground off and replaced, the casting number can be found on the transmission mount on the driver side engine block at the back, it's sometimes hare to see, nut it's a must to look at, it will tell you year, size, and application of the engine.

The casting number will also tell you if the engine is a four bolt main or not, and a 1969 Z/28 should always be a four bolt main, A 1969 Z/28 should also have front sway bars from the factory, and should have a Muncy M21, or M22 transmission, or of course a turbo 350 automatic transmission.

Now for the SS, depending on if the car is an SS 350, 396, or some special build car, it should have all of the above, minus the 302 CI engine, obviously id it's an SS 350 it will have a 350 CI engine, and if it's a SS 396 it will have a 396 CI engine, the SS ant the Z/28 both came with a 12 bolt rear end housing, and multi leaf springs, these should be on any car that you purchase,

Both also had the 120 MPH speedometer, and the 8,000 RPM tach, and these should be present in them also, you going to want to check trim tags, and paint codes, check all the numbers, and if they don't match, don't second guess, the rpo code, and the casting number should match, the rpo code will also tell you what transmission the car came with from the factory.

Both cars came from the factory with front power disc brakes, and should always have those installed, and a lot of the had the option of a center console, and the console is cool, but it's not a must to show that the car is an original, if you check these few things, you'll save yourself a lot of agony in the end.

• 1969 Camaro Blog

I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is. http://autorevival.com

Buying Cheap Cars

By Douglas T Adams

For many people, a car can be viewed as a status symbol. Most of us have seen on TV a profile of a celebrity's lifestyle, which often includes extravagent automobiles with personal showrooms. We even see luxury vehicles on the streets of major cities where it is often inconvenient to drive (let alone park). However, many of us view our cars with a more utilitarian purpose: a less-expensive car can provide both the usability and enjoyment found in many of today's luxury vehicles.

To save money on a car that offers quality, buying used is one way to go. Many higher-end vehicles can be owned at significant savings when purchased used. In fact, the automobile sales industry has popularized the phrase "pre-owned" to market higher-quality used vehicles. Even people who have previously purchased only new cars are finding that a pre-owned vehicle offers similar quality at a significant savings. It is well-known that luxury automakers such as Lexus or Mercedes build vehicles that will last easily a decade, and yet still be in top-performance condition. Many of us also know family members who have made a habit of purchasing off-lease or one-owner luxury autos. Even Morgan Freeman's character in the movie "Driving Miss Daisy" participated in this trend, buying Miss Daisy's cars once they were no longer new.

Some automakers also specialize in high-quality low-cost new cars. Hyundai, for example, makes reliability and affordability easy with vehicles often under $12,000 with full warranty coverage. Consider also the Honda Civic, known for its durability and quality in engineering from the Honda name, which can be had for around $15,000. Cars such as these are among the more gas-efficient ones on the road today, and their longevity is legendary. This also gives you a higher resale value, should you later decide on a different vehicle. Additionally, replacement parts are readily available (as are qualified mechanics), and they are engineered to perform well even on lower-octane gasoline.

You may also consider purchasing a new luxury car that costs much less than similar vehicles. For example, the Audi fleet offers models that compete with Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, and Jaguar, but at a significantly-reduced price. Audi prides themselves on unmatched engineering quality, while offering performance and style for less money than their competitors. Included in this fleet is the Audi TT; while not inexpensive, it is a sports car that offers a sleek appearance and power to spare.

We mustn't forget those of us looking for a functional, affordable car, who don't necessarily worry about performance or appearance. For these people, the slightly-older, dinged or paint-faded car is the one for them. Many teens often have a car such as this as the first automobile they own. Such a car provides freedom -- the ability to be on the move. These cars can also teach the elements of basic mechanics to their owners, should small problems arise. If this is your strategy, just remember that a deal that sounds too good to be true might be a warning sign: saving a few hundred dollars might not be worth the hassle if your car suddenly won't start when you have to go to work.

For more great articles on Buying Used Cars, please visit us at the Automotive Blog.

Government Car and Police Auctions - A Game Plan For Great Deals

By Doug E Smith

Government Auctions are the best place to buy vehicles at much lower price points then you'll ever get on the open market. In fact it's were most used car and vehicle dealerships buy their vehicles. It is important though to have a game plan in mind before attending the auction as this will set the parameters to insure that you not only walk away with a great car or vehicle but also pay less then you ever expected. It helps to be clear on what kind of vehicle you want to purchase ahead of time. The reason for this is that once you get to the auction you are going to see such an assortment of vehicles bidding off at low rates, that it's easy to get over zealous and purchase a car, more on emotion then practicality. For example dad goes to the auction with the task of buying a family van only to come home with a Corvette. Here are some additional simple tips to get the most out of your next government auction.

First and foremost it is important to identify that the government auction site that you are getting the auction listing information off is legitimate and up to date. What I have found is that many of the sites that claim to have auction listings have information that is not current and therefore is of little value to you. Make sure you research by visiting a government auctions review site ahead of time. These review sites are entrenched in the business and know who the best legit government auction sites are. They provide ratings and information on these top sites and what you can expect from each so you'll be that much more informed before taking the next step.

Set your budget and know how much you are willing to pay for your new vehicle. The best way to get a good deal is to expect a good deal so as a good rule of thumb, don't let your bid exceed 50%-60% of what the actual book or street value of the vehicle is. Obviously doing some research beforehand as to what the numbers are is in your best interest. Having your maximum discounted price in your mind ahead of time is important but even more important is to make sure that you abide by that number and don't become emotionally carried away with the competitive bidding excitement and overbid. Taking all this into consideration will help you decide whether to raise your bid or let it go. The good thing is that they can often have many of the popular models so if it the bid does go above your discounted maximum you'll have another try later.

Additional research that will work to your advantage is to check the government auction site listing to see a list of vehicles that will be auctioned out ahead of time. If this information is not listed then call the auction phone number provided ahead of time. Often as the auction nears they will have this information available to provide you.

Inspecting your prospective vehicle once you are at the auction is also a must. It' a good idea to find out ahead of time what to look for in selecting a near new or used vehicle. Check the engine, body and interior of the car to see if it is still in good condition. If you're not confident you can make a sound decision, bring a mechanic or someone who has much knowledge about cars.

With these helpful tips, surely your next government auction will be a good experience. Not only can you get the vehicle you've always wanted but you can get it at a much better price. Just remember to do the research mentioned here. Most of this information can be found in the top government auction sites as researched by the review site in the next paragraph.

To locate heavily discounted cars and vehicles at the best auction sites check out government auction reviews or to see examples for some of these auction prices visit police auctions.

Damaged Car Auctions - Purchasing Cars That Are Damaged

By Calvin Anderson

Damaged cars are essentially salvaged vehicles. These are cars that have been deemed invalid by insurance companies, listed off as complete loss, either through natural disasters or as stipulated by the insurance company. Most of these get repaired and sold off to the highest bidder at auto auctions throughout the land. Depending on how you look at it, the purchase of used cars or damaged cars is either a curse or a blessing.

What's In It for You?

Purchasing a damaged or used car has it benefits. You could strike a goldmine and find a great bargain on an automobile that requires little repair or restoration. If you are looking to purchase the vehicle, make sure to assess the damaged parts. How much you think it will cost to have it fixed or what other things needs to be repaired or replaced need to be considered when looking at damaged cars. If it will cost more than the price of a new car then, think twice before getting it.

What You Have to Look Out For

Exercise caution when getting salvaged cars. If you are just purchasing the car to use certain parts, then you won't need to worry too much, you just need to look into the necessary parts and make sure they are usable. It will be helpful if you could secure the history report. These reports give out a detailed record of the vehicle based on its serial number or VIN. They could indicate minor/moderate vehicular damage or any improper vehicle maintenance. Also, take note of all the documents involved. Make sure that you check whether the automobile is salvaged or rebuilt; most car insurance companies will not insure vehicles that are tagged as restored. If you are a novice at the car auctions game, then make sure to bring along someone who can help you assess whether the car you are buying is repairable.

How Much Should You Be Paying?

Used cars and damaged cars are sold by insurance companies under the conditions that they will be in a minor or major damaged condition. On a range, the price should be 25 to 50 percent cheaper than the actual price of the car in good condition.

As long as you exercise caution when buying and checking into all the possibilities and the repairs that need to be done, buying damaged cars is a good way to save up money and find the vehicle you want.

Make new discoveries and learn more handy tips about public car auctions such as where to find such auctions near your home and how to get great bargains for your car deals.