iDirect's new search feature saves you time!

iDirect`s new ''Search Preset'' feature allows you to save your favorite or preferred searches and avoid having to input the same searches each day. The result is you find the ''deals'' you are looking for faster! • It`s easy! You can easily spot the Search Preset button located at the top right corner of iDirect`s Search Page.

• Set your preferences! Just fill out the search criteria with your preferences, assign a Search Preset name (title) for that set of parameters and click save! • Done! View your search presets by clicking the Search Preset button every time you make a search. You can even save as many searches as you want! For more questions on how to use this feature, you may send email to csc@ibcjapan.co.jp or call (81) 75 622 5091. Bid through iDirect now!!

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IBC's Buy More Save More Promo: Extented 'til June 2009!

You heard us right! We`re extending our ''Buy More Save More'' program until June 30, 2009! That means more savings for you! Vehicle prices around the world and ocean freight rates have fallen - take advantage of the savings! The more units purchased, the bigger the credit amount earned! Use the credit amount earned for future purchases! Earn more than JPY 1,000,000 in credit! Click here to view the full credit terms! Send email to csc@ibcjapan.co.jp or call (81) 75 622 5091 for inquiries. Start the year right at IBC! Order now!!

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Great Deals for 2009: Get your dream car at a very low price!

Economy Cars more vehicles 2003 NISSAN MARCH AK12-198*** 1C 70TH 61398 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2003 NISSAN MARCH AK12-751*** 2C 70TH 98440 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2005 Honda FIT GD1-2210*** A 90755 kms 5 Door Hatch Petrol Auto 2006 HONDA FIT GD1-2334*** 13A 94264 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto

Sedans and Sports Car more vehicles 2003 NISSAN SKYLINE CPV35-502*** 350 GT 60019 kms 2 Door Coupe Petrol 6spd 2001 HONDA INTEGRA DC5-1005*** IS S Pakkage 60460 kms 3 Door Hatch Petrol Auto 2004 MAZDA RX8 SE3P-123*** base 40204 kms 4 Door Petrol 5spd 2005 NISSAN FAIRLADY Z Z33-401*** Base 10081 kms 3 Door Hatch Petrol 6spd

Station Wagons & 5 Door Hatches see more vehicles 2002 SUBARU LEGACY BH5-206*** GT 34767 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2002 SUBARU LEGACY BH5-225*** - 62894 kms 5 Door Petrol 5spd 1997 MITSUBISHI LEGNUM EC5W-0021*** VR-4 76559 kms 5 Door Wagon Petrol Auto 1997 SUBARU IMPREZA GF8-029*** WRX 72175 kms 5 Door Petrol 5spd

Crossovers more vehicles 2002 TOYOTA ESTIMA ACR40-0048*** Aeras 4WD 97653 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2001 HONDA CR-V RD1-5314*** Fullmark 95375 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2001 SUBARU FORESTER SF5-149*** S/0 110384 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2001 SUBARU FORESTER SF5-154*** S/TB 107275 kms 5 Door Hatch Petrol Auto

Wagons and Vans more vehicles 2002 TOYOTA ESTIMA ACR30-0187*** X 96575 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2002 TOYOTA ESTIMA ACR30-0199*** Aeras 79259 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto 2000 NISSAN Elgrand ATE50-006*** V TB 81711 kms 4 Door Diesel Auto 2004 NISSAN CUBE BZ11-148*** X 70TH-2 77120 kms 5 Door Petrol Auto

For inquires, you may email us at csc@ibcjapan.co.jp or call (81) 75 622 5091.

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Low 2009 Prices from Auction in Japan - IBC's iDirect makes it easy!

We bring you great news at the start of 2009!

• Low prices are even lower - The global financial crisis has made vehicle prices lower than ever! Get the best bargains and deals buying direct through iDirect!
  
  
• Time is money - No one knows how long the fall in prices will last. Now is the best time to take advantage of this opportunity!
  
  
• We`re better and faster than ever - Using iDirect`s auction search engine is better and faster than before with new features! Experience easier access to auctions in Japan and the USA using iDirect!
  
  

Start the new year right! Sign up now and bid through iDirect!

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How to choose the best tires for your vehicle

by Edon Canada

The “right” set of tires greatly affects your vehicle's performance and handling, road worthiness and safety, and fuel economy. Here is the spin on how to choose the right tires for your vehicle.

There are so many brands available in the market today and they all claim to be the best performance-boosting-safety-enhancing-fuel-efficient-super-tires. Well, maybe they really are but how would you choose the right one for your vehicle?

It all depends on the type of vehicle you drive, the climate and terrain of your locality and how you intend to use your vehicle. After considering these factors, your decision should be based on the tire’s performance and safety, price, brand and appearance.

To help you weigh your options, here are a few basic tire classifications to start with:


TIRE DIAMETER and WIDTH

Each vehicle model has a specific range of appropriate tire sizes. This is usually listed in the owner's manual or on a label posted on the vehicle. Anyway, it's easy to get this information online.


TIRE TYPE

There are three basic tire types: radial, bias-ply and bias belted. Most vehicles today come equipped with radial tires because they generally offer better performance and more durability.

Of course, you don't need to know that some tires specify in their labels that they are for use as temporary spares, for passenger cars or for light trucks. But now you also know.


TREAD DESIGN

Tread, here, refers to the rubber on the circumference of the tire which is designed to make contact with the ground.

The most common are all-season tires which can be used for regular highway conditions, rain, snow, slush and mud. This type of tire usually has an “m + s” (mud + snow) label. Then there are also specialized treads for snow or for regular highway conditions only.

All tires made by manufacturers who distribute to the US (most likely those also available in your area) must meet federal safety standards. Grades are assigned by manufacturers after performing tests designed by the government.

Except for off road tires and temporary spares, each tire has a label printed on paper or molded on the side of the tire. The quality ratings are based on the tire's tread wear, traction and temperature resistance.

Tread wear grade

This tells you how long the manufacturer expects the tire to last in comparison to other tires if all were subjected to the same usage conditions. For example, a tire rated 200 is expected to last twice as long as a tire rated 100.

Traction rating

This is scored A, B or C, tells you how well the tires can stop your vehicle on wet roads. Those tires rated “A” offer the best traction.

Temperature resistance

This rating, also scored A, B, or C, measures how well the tire will resist overheating during sustained high speed use. Yes, a tire graded "A" represents the best performance.


MAKING SENSE OF LABELS

Here’s how a typical tire label looks like: P205/60R-16 91V

In this tire label, "P" indicates that the tire is for passenger cars. Variations are “LT” for light truck or “T” for temporary or spare tire.

"205/60" means that the tire is 205mm wide and its side walls are 60mm tall.

"R" in this case means that this is a Radial tire.

“16” refers to the diameter of the wheel rim which is 14 inches.

“91” is the tire’s load index.

And the last letter “V” refers to the speed rating, the maximum safe speed that the tire can still be performing under ideal conditions. Variations are: Q (99mph), S (112mph), T (118mph), U (124mph), H (130mph), V (up to 149mph), Z (more than 149mph), W (168mph), and Y (186mph).

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Driving and Child Passenger Safety

by Mark Lorenzana

When driving with children, especially while going on long trips, it is important to take into account the safety of your passengers. Making sure that your car has seatbelts and airbags is not enough. Depending on your country and location, there are special local laws and legislation in place to ensure that child passengers traveling in cars enjoy the utmost safety on the road.

With this in mind, here are some general car seat safety tips for children:

1. Children under 12 years of age do not belong in the front seat, which is the most dangerous place in a car. Put children in the back seat, especially if your car has passenger side air bags.
2. In the case of infants they should be placed in a rear-facing infant seat until they are one year old and at least 20 pounds in weight. Children who reach 20 pounds before their first birthday still need to use a rear-facing seat.
3. After children reach 20 pounds and have passed their first birthday, they can now use a forward facing car seat until they are about 40 pounds.
4. A belt positioning booster seat should be used for children over 40 pounds.
5. A car’s regular seat belt should not be used on a child until they fit correctly. The minimum weight and height for a child to be able to use a seatbelt is about 80 pounds and 4 feet and 9 inches tall.
6. A child is not ready to use regular seat belts until the shoulder strap fits across his/her shoulder and not his neck. Also, the lap belt should fit across the child’s hips and not his/her stomach.
7. Be sure to read the car seat manufacturer’s instructions and your car owner's manual to ensure the correct installation and usage of the car seat.

There has been great progress achieved in recent years in preventing child occupant deaths and injuries, especially in increasing the correct use of child safety seats, booster seats and safety belts. However, more work needs to be done to protect child occupants who remain at heightened risk.

There is no denying the costs involved, because child seats and other safety accessories for children do not come cheap. But it's an expense a growing number of people are willing to bear. Every part of a car is replaceable unlike the people inside so keeping the kids safe and secure is invariably a price well worth paying.

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Common Biofuels for Cars

by Guile Canencia

If you’re gonna go get yourself an alternative fuel vehicle (read about Types of Alternative Fuel Vehicles) then you better get acquainted with the types of biofuel. It is defined as any type of fuel derived from biological sources. Biofuels are used in households around the world as fuel for heating purposes and in some countries, they are used to propel vehicles. Here are the most common types:

Vegetable oil. It’s not only useful in the kitchen but on the road, too. Used vegetable oil usually undergoes treatment (which usually involves heating) before they’re ready to be used as fuel. However, there are certain engines available today that are compatible with non-processed vegetable oil.

Biodiesel. Derived from processed organic oils and fats, it is one of the most common types of biofuel and has the least emission level. In the last ten years, most diesel engines are already configured for biodiesel compatibility. Its use has also dramatically increased in the US in the last two years.

Alcohol fuel. Prime examples include ethanol, propanol and butanol. Ethanol is widely popular worldwide, especially in South America where motorists use it in place of gasoline or a mixture of both. However, ethanol can be very corrosive and is often diluted to decrease its corrosive effect.

Biogas. This is produced when biodegradable materials undergo anaerobic digestion (through the help of microorganisms). In compressed form, it can be used to fuel internal combustion engines in cars.

Syn-gas. Synthesis gas is basically combined carbon monoxide and hydrogen. It can be used easily as fuel on internal combustion engines.

New generation biofuels. These are newly discovered bio-derived types which scientists are currently exploring as feasible alternative fuels. These include non-food crops which when subjected to further processing can yield usable fuel. In some countries, algae are being carefully studied as a possible source of fuel.

Of course, the effective use of this type of alternative fuel is still being discussed today. The main issue is how to achieve sustainable production and accordingly, the manner of distribution to consumers. On the upside, if they do become the primary source of fuel for vehicles, it could cause far less damage to the atmosphere compared to fossil fuels. Will biofuels ever replace petroleum fuels? Only time will tell.

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IBC offers even lower prices at the start of 2009

Get ready for an exciting 2009! We are pleased to inform you that the global financial crisis has made vehicle prices even lower than ever in the US and in Japan! We invite you to log in to IBC and see for yourself! Hurry, take advantage of this opportunity now!

Current trends have also resulted to better price accessibility and availability of shipping space! Shipping to your port of destination is almost immediate upon confirmation of your order! We require that payments of the required deposit are confirmed no later than January 21. Please confirm as soon as possible so we can make sure your vehicle(s) is shipped immediately! For questions, email me direct or at csc@ibcjapan.co.jp or contact me via phone (81) 75 622 5091.

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Risk Factors and its Effects on Car Insurance Premiums

by Bianca Villares


The premium that drivers pay for auto insurance depends on certain factors, specifically called risk factors. Based on previous driving records, miles driven per year, age, etc, a driver’s risk factor is evaluated and is directly proportional to the insurance premium he or she must pay.

To make sure you pay the lowest premiums possible, think about these factors and what you can do to make them advantageous for your situation:

Driving Violations and Accidents
Insurance companies have one thing in mind: a significant number of accidents or moving violations equals to greater accident risk. Some insurance companies even penalize drivers with a bad record, which usually lasts for a number of years. Bottom line is, the more driving violations you have, the higher the premium. If you want your premiums to decrease, keep your record clean.

Vehicle Type
This is where insurance companies and car owners understand each other’s demands. Car owners of the latest, most expensive models usually get insurance with better coverage, which means higher premiums. Cheap cars cost less to insure because car owners have the option to disregard other types of coverage that are not applicable to their vehicles.

Occupation
No, they don’t check your salary. Not yet, at least. For insurance companies, a significant relationship exists between the business use of your vehicle and the premium you must pay. If your job description includes long hours of driving such as being a door-to-door salesman, expect a higher premium.

Credit Rating
A better credit rating will save most drivers from higher premiums since many insurance companies believe that poor credit history is susceptible to higher risks.

Geography
The place where you reside can also dictate your insurance premiums. Living in congested cities or areas with a lot of traffic prone to vehicular accidents raises the risk factor of drivers. High crime rate, specifically of vehicle thefts, also leads insurance companies to charge higher premiums.

Education
Drivers with higher educational attainment are charged with lower premiums.

Others
Years of driving experience, lower miles driven each year, theft protection devices and multiple cars and drivers also offer opportunity for premium discounts.

Some factors which cannot be adjusted, such as age, gender, and marital status can also affect a driver’s risk factor. Most insurance companies see drivers under the age of 25 with higher potential risk of being in an accident. Women are also considered as safer drivers than men, while a married person has lower premiums compared to a single one with the same driving record.

By calculating your risk factors, you can easily get lower premiums which could save you a lot for the years to come. Just remember though, each insurance company has a different take on insurance premiums, so it’s always best to compare the rates of multiple companies for your particular situation.

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Types of Alternative Fuel Vehicles

by Guile Canencia

As the new millennium begins, people have never been so eco-conscious. In recent years, the imminent threat of global warming has compelled us to re-consider how we do and make things. This is most especially true when it comes to our daily means of transport — the car — which unfortunately, ranks among the major contributors of air pollution (and noise pollution) in the world. Thankfully, scientists are continuing to explore new ways to address this. One of these is the use of alternative fuel vehicles (AFV).

An AFV is any vehicle that doesn’t run on petrol or diesel fuel, although a car can be considered an AFV if it doesn’t rely exclusively on petroleum to function (like hybrid cars, which rely on petrol fuel and electricity). What are the different kinds of AFV? Let’s find out.

Hybrids. Hybrids use both gasoline and electricity to run. These vehicles normally feature an internal combustion engine and a battery pack which combine to give the vehicle its propulsion power. Hybrid cars have gained popularity over the years — the most common examples are the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight.

Battery Electric Vehicles. As its name applies, a BEV depends on the power of its battery pack. BEVs are among the cleanest vehicles because they don’t produce any carbon emission at all. Battery types may include nickel cadmium, lithium-ion, zinc-air or lead-acid batteries.

Biofuel Cars. Bioalcohol (or Ethanol) and Biodiesel are two types of biofuels that can be used on automobiles. There are still biofuel cars available today but most prefer the flexible-fuel vehicle.

Flexible-fuel Vehicles. With FFVs, you can use more than one type of alternative fuel. This is possible through the use of a multifuel engine which allows you to mix certain alternative fuels in the tank and is combusted as one. These cars are mostly found in the US and South America.

“Gas”-Powered Cars. Certain types of AFVs also run using compressed natural gas, biogas, liquid petroleum gas (or autogas), nitrogen gas, propane and hydrogen. Usually, these cars are your standard petroleum-using vehicles whose engines are modified to burn the alternative gaseous fuels.

The Solar Car. Solar cars use solar panels in order to harness the power of the sun. This type of AFV has been around for decades but unfortunately, no practical prototype has been developed yet for the masses. Nevertheless, countless solar car contests and races are being held every year and participated in by schools and universities all over the world.

AFVs may be environment-friendly but it has its disadvantages, too. AFVs are still a bit more expensive than the usual cars in the market and the availability of alternative fuels is still very limited. But still, the future promises more developments, new possibilities. Who knows? The first commercially-successful AFV may just be around the corner.

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Preparing Your Car for Winter

A treacherous road condition during winter is a bane to all drivers. Driving through snow and sleet doubles the travel time, or even worse, you and your car can even end up immobilized because of the extreme conditions.

While moving to a region with warmer climate may be the permanent solution, there are always certain precautions that are more realistic and achievable for drivers living in winter lands. To make it through the snow season without major issues, here are a few suggestions:

Check the Battery. Fact: Cold weather decreases the performance of a car’s battery. To avoid this situation, you may want to get a plug-in charger. Plug it in at night and attach it to your battery and in the morning you will be assured of a charged battery. It is also important to have your car’s battery and electrical system tested every once in a while. If the battery is almost 3 years old, it may be a good idea to have it tested at local service stations on a regular basis.

Check your Anti-Freeze. Good anti-freeze protects water in the radiator system against freezing and increases the boiling point of the water in the radiator system. To avoid it from leaking, it’s best to check your anti-freeze a couple of times a year. Experts also advise to change your anti-freeze every 2 to 3 years to keep it from breaking down. Anti-freeze is usually diluted with water following an estimate of 50/50 normal ratio. Check the directions on your specific brand to know the exact proper mix.

Pressure Check for Leaks. Conducting a pressure check can wash away any impurities such as rust that may clog the vehicle’s system. Don’t forget to inspect the cooling system for any visible leaks, especially around the water pump, radiator, hoses, freezing plugs, heater core, and clamps. If you notice that the belts are worn out, replace it right away. Frayed belts cannot drive the water pump, no matter how new or unclogged your system is.

Oil. Synthetic oil works well in both low and high temperatures. While conventional oil might lose its viscosity during the bitter cold months, the chemical makeup of synthetic oil keeps the lubrication fluid from freezing up, resulting to better lubrication of engine parts.

Tires. You may want to switch to all weather tires or get specially made snow tires for better handling when driving through the slippery and snowy roads. Keep your regular tires though because all weather tires are not advisable for prolonged normal road use. You can also attach snow chains to tires for increased traction.

Windshield Blades. Proper windshield blades can save you from a snowstorm as much as a good engine and cooling system can. Remember that visibility is the key to accident avoidance.

As for you, it’s best to keep a flashlight, a cell phone, and a medical kit in your car, just in case the weather is too much to bear for your vehicle. Think of survival, so pile up on essential items that will help you get through any unforeseen accidents or situations while driving until the winter season ends.

by Bianca Villares

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Driving and Cell phone Use: Identifying the hazards involved

If you think that driving under the influence of alcohol is still the most dangerous thing you can do behind the wheel, think again. Recent statistics show that driving while talking on a cell phone is just as deadly.

Millions of drivers worldwide talk on their hand-held phones daily. So why is it a problem? Cell phones are a proven distraction and according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States, cell phone use accounts for more than 25 percent of all police-reported traffic accidents. And this doesn’t even take into account the thousands of accidents that go unreported.

Of course, drivers who are avid cell phone users do take reports like these with a grain of salt. Wireless-phone proponents contend that talking on a cell phone while driving is just as hazardous (or non-hazardous) as, for instance, changing your radio station or flipping from one CD to the next. And with the advent of hands-free phones equipped with Bluetooth technology, it’s easy to brush off the dangers of driving while talking (on the phone) as a gross exaggeration.

There is no denying the advantages of carrying a cell phone in the car: you can call the office when you’re running late, phone loved ones while stewing in traffic, or call for roadside assistance in case of engine or car trouble.

But just the same, the hazards brought about by using cell phones while driving cannot be readily dismissed. After all, the use of cell phones while driving has already been banned in countries like Australia, Spain, Israel, Portugal, Italy, Brazil, Chile, Switzerland, Great Britain, Singapore, Taiwan, Sweden, Japan, and Austria.

Keeping this in mind, here are some cell phone safety tips that might just prove to be lifesavers:

1. Never read or write text messages while driving.
2. Program frequently called numbers into your phone's memory allowing you to keep dialing to a minimum.
3. If you must dial when the car is moving, hold the phone at eye level so you will have a clear view of the road.
4. Do not make emotional phone calls while driving.
5. Position your phone within easy reach.
6. Suspend calls in heavy traffic or in bad weather — you need to focus even more under hazardous conditions.
7. Keep conversations short. Inform the person you're calling that you are in a car, and hang up as soon as possible.
8. If possible, place calls when you are not moving. Pull over where possible.
9. Ask a passenger to help. Have someone else make or take the call.

It’s still a lot better to err on the side of safety.

by: Mark Lorenzana

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Buying from Japan is cheaper now than ever!

The current market situation in Japan has made buying cheaper today than ever before -- even taking into account the 10% slide in the USD/JPY the prices at auction have fallen 20-40% so the bargains are there for you! Take advantage of this and place your orders now!

Shipping to Bremerhaven, Germany is almost immediate upon confirmation of your order and deposit as we have both space, and shipping availability to meet your exporting needs! We require that payments of the required deposit are confirmed no later than Dec. 17th. Please confirm as soon as possible so we can make sure your vehicle(s) is shipped in 2008!

For questions, send email to csc@ibcjapan.co.jp or call via phone (81) 75 622 5091. Thank you always for choosing IBC Japan for your vehicle importing needs!

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Vehicular Accidents: What to do before and after collision

When minor vehicular accidents happen, involved car owners usually just end up blaming each other and overlook what should be done for future settlements. Aside from the possible injuries, accidents can be the worst nightmare if you don’t know what you have to do to save you from the headache after the scenario. Here are some steps which could help you regain control during a minor accident and remind you of what should be done for future claims.


Upon Collision

Stop your vehicle. It’s hard enough to lose control of your vehicle, but it can also be fatal for other motorists if you let the vehicle take control over you. Regain control of your vehicle and stop it from hitting others. In some countries, it is illegal to move the vehicle from the accident area, so try to warn the passing traffic by turning on the hazard lights.

Check the vehicle for dangerous damage. Gas leaks could turn any minor vehicular accident into a full-blown disaster. Turn the ignition off, go around the vehicle and check for any visible gas leaks or other things that could be as potentially dangerous.

Stay clear of the vehicle. You can’t afford more injuries, so it’s best to move away from it as soon as you have done the previous steps. Don’t linger too much on inspecting the vehicle; just check out the obvious and warn others who are involved of the damage which could also be harmful to them.

Check for injuries and call for medical services. After making sure that you are safe from further harm, check yourself for any injuries. Ask help to any willing motorist to call for medical help if you are suffering from minor injuries. It is also best to report the incident to the police which could help settle the damages and control the traffic caused by the accident.


After the Collision

Exchange information with the other driver. Make sure that you get the real identity and contact information of the other driver by asking for a valid ID, or better yet, ask for their driver’s license. Ask for the names of any passengers. Ask for the number of driver’s insurance company as well as the coverage they have applied for. Take note of the vehicles make, model, year and license plate number.

Get witness statements. Ask people or passing motorists who are open to give witness statements to write down their name and telephone number. You can also ask them to leave a signed witness statement if they cannot wait for the police to arrive on the scene.

Speak with police and obtain a copy of police report. You and the other driver involved should be prepared to give personal accounts of the accident Use the witness statements to confirm your personal account. After all the statements have been gathered, ask the police where you can claim a copy of the police report. Cooperate with the police until they allow you to leave the scene.

Now what’s left to do is to contact the insurance company. If the other party is at fault, the claim process may be tedious but it is best to remain in contact with the insurance company until you have completed the settlement.

Nobody wants to get into a car accident. But as much as any driver would want avoid it, accidents do happen due to recklessness. Prepare yourself and lessen the troubles minor accidents can cause by keeping your mind in track and informed.

by: Bianca Villares

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Applying Feng Shui Principles To Your Car

Feng shui may be an ancient practice but it doesn’t mean you can’t use its core principles and apply them to your favorite set of wheels. And come to think of it, it does make perfect sense to optimize the positive energy inside something you spend some time in everyday. Here’s a brief rundown of some simple things you can do:

The Way of the Water. Water is pure and free-flowing. Adapt these qualities by keeping a bottle of water inside your car. Plus, you’ll never go thirsty!

Tidy Up! Get rid of all the unwanted stuff — candy wrappers, cigarette cases, old receipts, empty bottles, etc — and make your car spic-and-span! Doing so will give you more freedom of movement and more space.

Purge Negativity! Of course, you can always start by thinking positively. Then you can make use of certain time-tested agents and tokens of positivity like sweet grass, sea salt or you could hang a crystal on a blue ribbon on your rear view mirror.

Heaven Scent! Keep the air inside your car fresh and clean. Lemon is a good choice, so is rosemary. Always go for organic instead of artificial.

Get by with a little help from your animal friends. Dragons are supposed to be good protectors against evil elements. Of course, finding a real dragon may not be that easy, you can choose to put a cute dragon stuffed toy on the dashboard instead.

Affirm! Never underestimate the power of affirmation. Scribble an affirmation phrase on a piece of paper, e.g. “I got the coolest ride in town!”, and put it in your glove compartment or better yet, glue it on your steering wheel. And before you know it, you already have the coolest car in town!

Know your color! Go red if you’re ambitious. Pick silver or gold if you hunger for adventure. If you’re constantly afflicted with wanderlust, paint your car violet or green. If you’re the type who likes to get down to business all the time, then blue or black is the color for you.

For some of us, the car is like a second home. And what better way to have it “cleansed” of unwanted elements than to have it feng shui’d? Besides, it won’t cost you that much.

by: Guile Canencia

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Basic car maintenance tips

by Mark Lorenzana

Your car might be ranked first or second among your most prized possessions. And with good reason— you paid good money for it. Here are some maintenance tips on how to keep your car in tiptop condition so you can avoid unnecessary breakdowns and expensive repairs.

• Regularly changing your car's engine oil and filter is one of the most important things you can do to keep your car running well. Over time, engine oil breaks down and your filter becomes clogged with contaminants.
  
  
• Wash your car regularly (at least once a week) and wax it once in a while to keep it shiny and free from corrosion. However, the most important thing to remember when washing your car is to use products that will be able to gently lift away dirt and grime without damaging the underlying surfaces or strip away existing wax or sealant protection.
  
  
• Always try to use genuine spare parts as replacements. Sure, generic spare parts are a lot cheaper but it’s a better idea to stick to the more reliable originals.
  
  
• Take good care of your tires: check your tires’ pressure regularly - at least once a month; if your tires are worn, have them re-treaded right away or better yet, replace them; improper alignment causes increased tire wear, and in worst cases, may throw your car into a skid especially on a wet road. Have the alignment checked.
  
  
• Have your car checked by a mechanic at least once a year -- and not just a quick visual inspection by one of the fast lube places. Have a competent mechanic inspect major components of your car such as brakes, suspension, etc. while having your tires rotated. This is important because many vehicle components (ball joints, for example) cannot be inspected visually.
  

As soon as you feel there is something wrong with your car like any kind of irregular noise or vibration while driving, have it checked soonest. You don’t want a car that’s unsafe to drive.

For complete information on how to maintain your car, it’s a good idea to refer to your owner's manual or better yet, pay a visit to your local vehicle repair shop.

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Some Features that Used Cars Can Do Without

by Bianca Villares

Buying a used car is cheap. But due to the premise that buying used cars means more savings, most used car buyers are given the excuse to spend a lot more on added features and accessories which are not only expensive but also unnecessary at times. The natural temptation of “new car features” for used cars may seem appealing, but it won’t do much good to your pockets once it gets broken.

If you want to upgrade your used car, check out the following features. Maybe you and your used car can do away without them.

Carputer. It is a general purpose computing platform which basically enables your car to support a number of features. To name a few, the Carputer or CarPC allows your vehicle to play videos, provide location tracking through GPS, enjoy internet connection through an eligible cell phone or wireless connections, and even synchronize files between your desktop and the Carputer. Of course, the benefits of the Carputer come with a hefty price. If you prefer to work and enjoy the perks while driving, better start saving.

High-definition Audio System. For music lovers, a car audio system is an important accessory for personal enjoyment while driving. With cassette players outdated, most car owners prefer audio systems compatible with USB playback support or an I-pod auxiliary port. Good car speakers also give definition to any audio system, and car owners/music buffs can even mount two speakers at the rear and two in the front. But high definition audio support is more of a luxury rather than a necessity. If listening to good music without all the bass and treble is enough for you, then stick to your current audio system.

Body Kits. Aftermarket ground effects parts are called body kits, and they are designed to enclose the gap between the bottom of the fuselage and the ground. Vehicles which include ground effects in its original design allow airflow manipulation in such a way to create a down force on the car, reducing the lift and thus increasing control. However, aftermarket body kits only simulate the appearance of a vehicle in ground effect and usually do not provide significant aerodynamic benefit.

Custom-hinged Doors. Unlike conventional doors hinged at the front-facing edge of the door, custom-hinged doors have fixed hinges located in unique locations. For example, scissor doors have a fixed hinge near the end of the windshield so the door open upwards rather than outward and are useful in tight parking spaces. Aftermarket conversions are becoming popular among car owners who own less exotic automobiles. Though custom-hinged doors are stylish and somewhat useful, the manufacture cost of the door hinge is more than that of a conventional door.

Hubcaps. Also known as the wheel cover or wheel trim, the hubcap is a decorative disk on an automobile wheel that covers at least its central portion. It often bears the trademark or symbol of the maker of the automobile, but more car owners prefer to have them custom-made. Custom-made hubcaps are generally expensive, and most of them have the tendency of falling off due to hitting bumps on a bad road. Though retention systems have been developed, this problem persists until today.

Rather than spending money on features and accessories you can do without, why not spend money on parts that can improve your vehicle’s performance or increase its safety? Keep your used car running for a long time by investing on useful parts wisely and save yourself from spending too much money.

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How some used car accessories jack up price but diminish value

by Edon Canada

A regular person’s dream ride, no matter what type of car, will have high tech features just short of James Bond’s vanishing Aston Martin. It wreaks havoc on our sense of proportion when we find a used car with an entertainment system, navigation, and all the gadgetry that we associate with the car of our dreams. A vehicle priced too high could end up looking like a rare bargain. If you want to buy a used car like a pro, you may want to steer clear of these new car features.

Navigation Systems. Many authorities on assigning used car values consider this as an additional asset. The fact is that this accessory usually only works in the vehicle’s country of origin. Some of them only require you to upload maps of your area for the system to work. But downloading the maps to your flash drive still presents an extra cost. So do your homework and find out the type of navigation system you are buying and if maps of your area are indeed available.

Built-in DVD Monitors. LCD screens that are built into the car are becoming quite popular. Sometimes they are imbedded in the front row’s headrests, mounted on the space between the front row seats, or even on the dashboard panel. You’d probably gladly pay a bit more for this gorgeous extra. Don’t. They easily malfunction and are quite expensive to replace. Instead, buy a portable DVD player. It has a bigger screen and is easier to use in and out of the car.

Satellite Radio Receivers. This high tech accessory is perfect for those who demand crystal clarity when tuning in to their favorite radio stations; provided, of course, that they are willing to pay an outrageous sum for subscription. Companies which provide satellite radio service have their own specific receivers which can let you listen to their own specific radio stations, depending on your specific subscription. As to which of these companies will continue to exist in the near future, I’m afraid there is nothing specific at the moment.

Removable Third-Row Seats. This ingenious feature, just like the SUV craze, is all but gone now. Not just because people are now looking for more fuel efficient vehicles but because they realize that if you needed the space while you are away from home and you manage to survive removing the 50 pound third row furniture, there’s no place to store them. If you are really willing to shell out some cash for an extra space, look for third row seats that fold on the floor.

Panoramic Roofs. Glass sunroofs that stretch from the back to the front of a vehicle are dangerous. Debris can crack and break the glass during an accident and there were even cases when passengers were thrown through them. Besides, a damaged sunroof is tough and quite expensive to fix.

Run-Flat Tires. If you are worried about running a flat tire, use the spare. Run-flat tires will give you a harsher ride. Although they can keep you from worrying about holes in your rubber, run-flat tires will still slowly but surely drill a hole in your pocket as they lower your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Keyless Entry. Yes, James Bond never used a key. He never worried about replacement cost in case the remote got lost or damaged either. And when the gadget failed, the director can always call for a second take. Because these tiny contraptions do fail; and when they do, I hope you don’t get mistaken for a burglar when you try to jimmy the lock on your car, Agent 007!

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Maintaining the peak performance of your car’s battery

by Jovir Amatong

For those of you who are first time DIYs, the battery is one of the integral components of your car; it is rechargeable and is the power source of the ignition system and other electrical devices in your car.

Initially there’s the maintenance free and low-maintenance types to choose from. A maintenance free battery is sealed and will not require replenishing the battery fluids over a long period of time while the low-maintenance type requires constant check up and replenishing once a drop in battery fluid levels can be seen. Battery fluid (Alkaline) can easily be bought at local gas stations and car yards or you can use distilled water as a substitute.

In layman’s terms the battery is the heart of your car but is often times the most neglected simply because nowadays it’s bought “maintenance free.”

Recent trends and technological advancements have made maintenance free batteries a standard on every vehicle out in the market today.

Don’t get the impression that since you’ve read on the label that it’s maintenance free, you will just simply put it in its place and forget about it. Your car’s battery is not entirely that. Just like any other sensitive equipment of your car, it also requires your constant care and attention for it to function well.

Here are the basic maintenance tips that will certainly save you a lot of trouble and will not leave you clueless by the roadside while on a very important trip.

As a rule before doing maintenance checks, always see to it to disconnect the clamps off the terminals to avoid untoward injuries from shock.

1. Check the cell casing and cover
Run an ocular inspection on the battery cell casing, box and cover for signs of moisture and pungent acidic smell. These are indicators that your battery is leaking and it needs to be fixed or replaced right away.

Maintain caution when handling leaking batteries for hazardous chemicals are present.

2. Clean terminals, clamps and cables
When you happened to see white powdery specks or see colorful substances around the terminals, they are signs of corrosion and needs to be cleaned right away. Make a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon baking soda immersed in 1 cup of water) and with an old toothbrush, clean the terminals, clamps and cables. Also clean the battery cover for accumulated grime and dust.

3. Make sure everything is dry
Make it a point to have everything dry before going further with your check up. With a dry rag, wipe off the remaining dew and moisture from the battery and terminals.

4. Check the wiring and connection
Run a check on the wires and clamps for strips or corrosion. If you have stripped cables, patch the affected part with a good electrical tape or have them replaced by a mechanic. Make sure that the battery is placed securely in its place. If your battery is equipped with a hold down bar, be sure to replace it.

5. Lubricate the terminals
With a lubricant (Petroleum jelly) place a small dab on the terminals. This will keep your cables clean and free of corrosion longer, while making it easier for you to put the cables back on the battery terminal.

6. Change your battery
Change your battery at the maximum of 3 to 3.5 years or after reaching the warranty period. For accidental battery drain (Such as leaving the lights on or stereo on) a lot of auto technicians would just recommend re-charging.

Car battery maintenance is that easy! Do it frequently to extend the life of your battery.

Safe driving.

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How to Detect Hidden Defects in a Used Car

by Edon Canada

Imagine yourself in the seller's shoes. You are trying to sell your old coupe for a bigger sedan. You gather the keys, rummage through your pile of junk for the owner's manual and old service records. You clean the engines, vacuum the interiors, rub out the stains on the cushions and put your coupe through a car wash.

When you get home to admire the sheen of the freshly polished wax, you notice some scratches and dents. Luckily, you have the cosmetics for such a contingency. And if your luck holds out, buyers wouldn’t even notice the dents and scratches. You are now ready to meet the buyers with a smile borne out of a clean conscience.

Imagine and remember this because this is exactly how a private seller with an ounce of business sense would prep his or her vehicle before a sale. Dealers could do it a lot better when they try. So, how do you see past the haphazard paint job? There is a way to detect hidden defects on the vehicle.

Body

• Check if the paint on the outside of the car matches the paint inside the door frame. Check for gritty surfaces and paint overspray on chrome – possible signs of a new paint job or masking body dents and scratches.
• Check if the panels line up evenly. Also check if there are any scuffs, scratches, dents or irregular protrusions in the wings and bumper – these could be warning signs of past accidents.
  

Doors and Trunk Lid

• Make sure that doors and lid open without any creaks and close smoothly without being slammed. A door or lid that doesn’t fit evenly could indicate that the vehicle was involved in a collision or was regularly driven in rough roads.
• Check that the locks work properly.
• Look for rips and stains on the interior panel of the door and scrapes on the bottom edges.
  

Windows

• See if there are any hairline cracks or tiny holes in the glass.
• Make sure that they move up and down smoothly and if they fit snugly when fully rolled up or down.
  

Tailpipe

• Check if the tailpipe is damaged from poor reversing.
• Examine the rear bumper for excessive soot from the exhaust. If the tailpipe has black gummy soot, this may indicate that the engine has worn rings or bad valves, which could mean expensive repairs.
  

Tires and Shock Absorbers

• Check the tires (don’t forget the spare) if they are unevenly worn as this may indicate either bad alignment or worse – damaged suspension.
• Put your full weight on a corner of the car and release – if the car keeps rocking up and down, be wary about the condition of the shock absorbers.
  

Interiors

• Check if the steering wheel points straight when the wheels are aligned ahead.
• Check the upholstery for cigarette burns, rips, stains or scuffs. Low mileage readings but worn out driver’s seat and brake and accelerator pedals could mean that the odometer has been tampered.
• Musty smell, dirt under the mat, moisture inside the trunk and watermarks on the interior panels of doors are likely indicators of flood damage.
  

Lights and Mechanical Devices

• Make sure the lights, air conditioner, heater, windshield wipers, radio and other accessories work properly.

Already sounds like too much work? This doesn’t include checking out the engine and gauging the vehicle’s driving performance yet. That’s a long topic that needs to be addressed in a separate article. Nevertheless, what we’ve discussed could help you unmask any hastily dressed up lemon to reveal its true colors, so to speak.

If you want convenience, buy from a reputable dealer who sells the vehicle “as is.” The dealer does the checking for you, documents all the dents, scratches and damages worth noting and includes the information in the vehicle description. Then all you need to do is negotiate the price.

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