Guide To Auto Insurance Rates

Posted on December 21, 2011 by admin

Auto Insurance Rates

Auto insurance rates will vary depending on the insurance agency, your driving record, and the type of insurance you are looking to purchase.

I you are looking for affordable car insurance or truck insurance
then read on.

  • There are ways to reduce your premiums without giving up coverage.
  • One of the easiest things to do is get auto insurance rate quotes online.
  • This will allow you to comparative shop stress free.

 

Raising your deductibles is the easiest way to reduce your rates.

  • The higher the deductible, the lower the premium will be.
  • The deductible is the portion you will have to pay in the event of accident, before your insurance coverage steps in.
  • It’s important not to carry a deductible that’s more than what you are able to pay.
  • Your insurance company will not honor its portion of the claim until you’ve paid your deductible.

However, the higher your deductible the lower your premium cost will be

  • Always remember to ask your insurance broker for any available discounts.
  • Quite often we forget to ask and they don’t seem to volunteer the information.

A clean record on the current policy for a certain period of time, having your homeowner’s coverage with the same insurer, taking a defensive driving course, having an accident free driving record, and having an approved anti-theft device will reduce your auto insurance rates.

The type of car you drive can also reduce your rates.

  1. Stay away from cars that have a high class rating.
  2. Rates vary among the different makes and models of vehicles.
  3. The different rates are based on the risk of accident, cost to repair, higher theft rates for a particular model and replacement costs such as with a new vehicle.
  4. So be sure your vehicle isn’t going to be in a category that increases your rates too much.

 

A safe driving record consisting of no accidents and no traffic violations will get you the most substantial discount. Most insurance companies are very good at recognizing good driving habits. These are the drivers they want to insure because their risk is much lower.

If the car is old and not very valuable, comprehensive insurance is probably not worth buying as it can quickly add up to more than you’d ever receive in the event of an accident. You can save up to 20% by eliminating collision insurance. You may want to opt not to carry collision insurance as well which can save you and additional 20%.

Check around to make sure you are getting the best auto rates you can. Online auto insurance shopping has taken the guess work out of buying insurance and you can very quickly see if you are being hosed. So if your insurance is coming due now is the time to start shopping!.

 

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Safety Tips When Renting a Car

Posted on October 23, 2010 by admin

Renting a Car? Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

by: ARA Content

(ARA) – If you’re traveling by plane in the coming months, chances are you’ll be renting a car when you land. Driving an unfamiliar vehicle in an unfamiliar city can be stressful. But with a little foresight, you can be prepared and relaxed.

Before You Go

Your safety preparations should begin when making your rental reservations. While you want to get a good deal, you also want a good car. Web sites such as that operated by Consumer Reports can provide information on car safety ratings. “Your insurance company may also have safety statistics on various makes and models,” says Jeff Beyer, senior vice president and chief communications officer of Farmers Insurance.

Rent a car that is suited to your needs. If you are traveling with a family of four and lots of luggage, a compact car may not have enough room. Also, make any special requests when you arrange your reservation. For example, if you know you will need a child’s car seat for your two-year-old, be sure to reserve one early — don’t expect one to be available on the spur of the moment when you arrive to pick up your car.

“You’ll also want to check with your insurance company to find out how your coverage works for rented cars,” says Beyer. Find out if your insurance will cover service calls on rental cars, and ask your agent if you will need to buy any supplemental insurance from the car rental company. “By doing a little research before you leave on your trip, you may be able to save money by not purchasing unnecessary and overly expensive insurance through the car rental company,” he adds. Some credit cards also provide supplementary insurance if you use them to pay for the car rental. Check with your credit card company for specifics.

When You Pick Up Your Car

Check the contract to make sure you’re getting the rate and the car you were promised when you made the reservation. Ask the agent what to do if the car breaks down. If you’re not sure how to get to your destination, request a map and driving directions from the agent.

Once at the car, do a quick check for any damage; if you spot anything significant, call it to the attention of the rental company before you take the car off the lot, so you won’t be penalized for damage you didn’t cause.

Before You Leave the Lot

Familiarize yourself with the car: be sure you know how to work the headlights, turn signals and interior lights. Check the windshield wipers to make sure they work and that there is washer fluid; you don’t want to get caught in rain or snow with bad wipers.

Adjust the seat and mirrors. Check the seatbelts; is there one for every passenger? Are they easy to latch and unlatch? If you like to listen to the radio as you drive, tune in a local station that meets your tastes before you hit the road.

Enjoy Your Visit

Because rental cars are attractive targets for thieves, remove all valuables from the car when it is parked, if possible. If you have to leave your luggage or other property in the car, lock it in the trunk, out of sight.

By planning ahead and taking a few easy precautions, renting a car will be easy. Now if you can just fit all those gifts into your luggage for the return trip home.

For more information on Farmers Insurance, visit www.farmers.com.

About the author:
Courtesy of ARA Contentwww.aracontent.com
info@ARAcontent.com

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Best Auto Repair Tools For The DIY’er

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

Auto Tools For The DIY’er

by: Kevin Schappell

If you are a car owner who occasionally works on his or her own car, please don’t go out and spend thousands of dollars on high priced tools. Professional mechanics make a living with their tools and need the best. If you are doing minor repairs on your own vehicles a lower cost tool set will do just fine. We have teamed up with AutoBarn.com to bring you the best price on tools for the DIYer. Keep in mind you can find most of these tools at your local parts store, but probably not at these prices. Let’s look at the basics you will need for most common jobs.
The oil change:
Lifting tools: To gain access to the oil pan you need to get the front wheels off of the ground safely. Never leave the car supported only by a jack. A good set of jack stands or ramps are the safest way to go. Also don’t forget to chock up the rear wheels to keep the car from sliding back. Even though you may have the emergency brake set, they can fail.
Oil filter wrench: Nothing is more frustrating than trying to get an oil filter off without the right wrench. I have gone to the extent of poking a screwdriver through the filter to spin it off….. this is not the cleanest way to change an oil filter.
Funnel: You have to get the new oil into the engine, and the less you spill, the less will burn off later while driving. Any funnel will do, but look for one with a long flexible neck, which will help getting into those tight places.
The brake job:
Disc brakes: You will need some special hex or torx sockets to get the caliper loose. Do not try using the wrong tool like a vise-grips or filed down bit…. you will damage the bolts. You will also need to retract the brake pistons once you have the old pads out. Using a C-clamp does work, but you have to be careful not to damage the pistons.
Drum brakes: There are special tools, which allow you to remove the clips, which hold the shoes to the backing plate. Also you will need an adjuster to adjust the shoes once you have everything back together.
Bleeding the brakes: Get a good kit, which includes a sealed container to collect the expelled brake fluid.
General tools:
A good Quality Tool Set: Make sure you have metric wrenches as all import cars have metric fasteners and most if not all-new domestic cars do also. If you plan on doing advanced work, or plan on eventually working as a professional mechanic consider buying a set of Craftsman tools. I have found them to be the best value and you cannot beat the lifetime guarantee. Plus wherever you are, there is a Sears store to take your broken tools in for replacement.
Auto Repair Manual: You wouldn’t bake a cake without a recipe…. would you?? Make sure you have a manual by your side before you start working on your car. I can only give you general guidelines, but the manual will give you all of the specifics for your car, truck or SUV.

About the author:
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.comwhere he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has createdhttp://www.mycarwizard.com

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The Auto Insurance Primer

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

Auto Insurance Primer

by: Belinda Waters

What is auto insurance? Auto insurance (or car insurance, motor insurance) is insurance consumers can purchase for cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Its primary use is to provide protection against losses incurred. By buying auto insurance, depending on the type of coverage purchased, the consumer may be protected against:

* The cost of repairing the vehicle following an accident
* The cost of purchasing a new vehicle if it is stolen or damaged beyond economic repair
* Legal liability claims against the driver or owner of the vehicle following the vehicle causing damage or injury to a third party.

Liability insurance covers only the last point, while comprehensive insurance covers all three. Even comprehensive insurance, however, doesn’t fully cover the risk associated with buying a new car. Due to the sharp decline in value immediately following purchase, there is generally a period in which the remaining car payments exceed the compensation the insurer will pay for a “totaled” (destroyed, or written-off) vehicle. So-called GAP insurance was established in the early 1980’s to provide protection to consumers based upon buying and market trends. The escalating price of cars, extended term auto loans, and the increasing popularity of leasing gave birth to GAP protection. GAP waivers provide protection for consumers when a “gap” exists between the actual value of their vehicle and the amount of money owed to the bank or leasing company. In some countries including New Zealand and Australia market structures mean that people are more likely to buy a nearly new car than a new car so this is less of a problem.

In the United States, liability insurance covers claims against the policy holder and generally, any other operator of the insured’s vehicle, provided they do not live at the same address as the policy holder and are not specifically excluded on the policy. In the case of those living at the same address, they must specifically be covered on the policy. Thus it is necessary for example, when a family member comes of driving age they must be added on to the policy. Liability insurance generally does not protect the policy holder if they operate any vehicles other than their own. When you drive a vehicle owned by another party, you are covered under that party’s policy. Non-owners policies may be offered that would cover an insured on any vehicle they drive. This coverage is available only to those who do not own their own vehicle.

Generally, liability coverage does extend when you rent a car. However, in most cases only liability applies. Any additional coverage, such as comprehensive policies, i.e. “full coverage” may not apply. Full coverage premiums are based on, among other factors, the value of the insured’s vehicle. This coverage may not apply to rental cars because the insurance company does not want to assume responsibility for a claim greater than the value of the insured’s vehicle, assuming that a rental car may be worth more than the insured’s vehicle. Some states, such as Minnesota, may require that it extend to rental cars. Most rental car companies offer insurance to cover damage to the rental vehicle. In some regions, the costs associated with not having access to the vehicle (“Loss of Use”) is also covered.

About the author:
What is auto insurance? A basic primer on auto insurance.

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Simple Car Cleaning and Detailing Guide

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

A Simple Car Cleaning Guide

by: Pete Lance

“It looks like new! I can’t believe that car’s seven years old!” Would you like to hear that from your friends? I’m sure all of us do, but keeping our car looking like the latest models is tough, even with today’s longer-lasting finishes.

However, if we adopt simple techniques such as cleaning out cars regularly and attending minor repairs immediately, the results can be remarkable.

Some car owners think rainwater is the only enemy to their car, but bird droppings, highway bugs, atmospheric pollution and road salt can also ruin the beauty of your car.

Many owners think fighting these ever-diligent adversaries is a daunting task, so they don’t usually bother, but truthfully, it’s easier than they think.

Step 1: Washing

First, spray water gently to thoroughly wet the surface of the vehicle. This light rinse helps to loosen the dirt on the vehicle. Then divide your car into five sections: the top, the hood, the trunk, the right side and the left side. Start from the top, move on to the hood and the trunk, and then concentrate on the right side and the left side. Washing should always be done very gentle such that the dirt will not scratch the body of your car. Re-wet and then rinse each section, finishing in the same order- top, hood, trunk and sides.

Step 2: Polishing

Polishing should only be done a small section at a time. Add an even coating of polish onto a towel, and then apply to the vehicle surface gently in small, even and circular motions. Start at the top and working your way down to the trunk and hood, finally ending with the sides. The polish should be allowed to sit on the paint surfaces for at least five to ten minutes. After this time, remove the residue with a different cotton towel by pressing firmly on the surfaces. The same procedure may be applied to all other four sections.

Step 3: Waxing

Use a soft and clean terry cloth towel to apply wax to a small section of the car. The application of wax to the car can be done similar to how polishing has been carried out. The only difference is you should wait until the wax has dried to a slight haze. If you’re really striving, repeat the whole process again, adding a second coat of wax to the vehicle.

And there you have it! You’ve removed the dirt and grime; polished away the small spots and scratches; and added another layer of protection to your vehicle’s finish. By now your car should glitter like it did the first day you got it. Don’t forget the last step – show off your car!

About the author:
Complements of http://www.USGasTracker.orgLowest Gas Prices. For any US zip code. Free daily email with locations and prices.

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Introduction to Trailer Hitches

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

An Introduction to Trailer Hitches

by: Elizabeth Morgan

Pickup trucks and SUVs with trailer hitches have a wide range of uses. They can pull boats, campers, cargo trailers and a number of other items. There are several types of trailer hitches. Most pickup trucks have what is called a ball trailer hitch. Other types of trailer hitches are goose-neck trailer hitches and fifth wheel hitches.

It is important to have a strong enough truck to haul whatever is connected to the trailer hitch. The truck must have enough engine strength to build up momentum to pull the trailer. This is why you very rarely see cars equipped with trailer hitches.

Trailer hitches must be installed correctly to the truck or the entire hitch rig can come off, leaving the cargo behind. Usually, the hitch is mounted on a type of bumper that must be installed under the tailgate. The strength of this rig determines how much weight the hitch can handle. Different classes can pull different amounts of weight. Class-1 trailer hitches are the weakest; they can usually pull up to 2000 pounds. Class-5 trailer hitches are the strongest, with a pulling capacity of over 10,000 pounds.

Most pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles have ball trailer hitches. The hitch consists of a metal ball that attaches to a socket on the cargo. Larger trailer hitch balls can usually support more weight than smaller balls. Ball trailer hitches are more versatile than many other types and can be used to haul small cargo trailers, boats, and some campers.

Gooseneck trailer hitches also use a ball, but they are attached to the truck differently. Gooseneck trailer hitches are attached to the top of the truckbed, rather than at the bumper.

Fifth wheel trailer hitches are the strongest type of trailer hitch. They can be used to carry heavy cargo. Heavy-duty cargo trucks usually employ fifth wheel hitches.

Trailer hitches allow trucks to haul cargo. Without the proper type of hitch, it would be impossible to attach and pull a trailer.

About the author:
Trailer Hitches Info provides detailed information on motorcycle, U Haul, and gooseneck trailer hitches, as well as trailer hitch accessories like trailer hitch covers and bike racks, and advice on trailer hitch installation. Trailer Hitches Info is the sister site of Tire Chains Web.

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Tips for Saving Money on Gasoline

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

18 Tips for Saving Money on Gasoline

by: Fisher Swanson

Gas prices are on the rise again! Here are some tips to help you conserve gas and save money as we approach summer gas prices.

1. Keep your car tuned up. Cars in poor running condition use more gasoline.

2. Plan trips well to avoid unnecessary driving.

3. When you run your air conditioner you get much worse gas mileage. Use your air conditioner sparingly. If you have a lower setting, use it. Turn it on until the car gets cool, then turn it off and let the fan circulate the cool air. Never run your air conditioner with your windows open!

4. Keep your windows closed when traveling at high speeds. Open windows cause additional drag and lower your gas mileage. At high speeds, an open window can use more gas than many air conditioners (especially if they are on a low setting).

5. Check your tire pressure. Over-inflated tires can actually reduce your fuel efficiency, so don’t overfill.

6. If at all possible, change your work start time to avoid gridlock. Stop and go traffic hurts your gas mileage.

7. Take unneeded items out of the car. You don’t need to carry snow chains around with you in the summertime. Just make sure to put them back in when winter comes around.

8. Try not to idle your engine for long periods of time. If you are stuck in traffic and you don’t think you are going to go anywhere in the next five minutes, you may want to turn your car off.

9. You no longer need to warm your car up for long periods of time, especially new cars. New cars are made to run when cold.

10. Don’t travel at fast speeds in low gears unless you need the compression to slow down.

11. Try to drive the speed limit.

12. Try to accelerate slowly when leaving the stop light. It’s not a competition with the driver in the lane next to you. The fastest person through the intersection just gets to spend more on gas.

13. No need to buy the highest priced gasoline. Most cars are built to run on regular unleaded. Check you owners manual or consult a mechanic. I have had many tell me that the more expensive gas is a waste of money.

14. Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. There is no need to rev before you turn your vehicle off.

15. If at all possible, try to arrange car pools with co-workers to share the cost of commuting to work.

16. Walk, bike or run to your intended location whenever possible.

17. When the price is sky high, don’t fill up. Wait for the price to go down before you fill up your tank. Filling up your tank when the price is peaking lets gas companies know that you are willing to pay ridiculous prices for gasoline.

18. And last, the biggest and most important step towards saving money on gas is always try to purchase vehicles that get good gas mileage. The difference between 20 miles-per-gallon and 40 miles-per-gallon is huge.

About the author:
Fisher Swanson is a regular contributer to The ThriftyFun.com News. ThriftyFun publishes information about thrifty living. Send an email to thriftyfunnews-on@thriftyfun.com to subscribe to The ThriftyFun.com News.www.thriftyfun.com
fisher@thriftyfun.com

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Why Does My Car Engine Overheat?

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

Why does a car engine overheat?

by: Jakob Jelling

There are many different reasons that can cause an engine overheat, but they all have in common three aspects. The three aspects which all engine overheat factors have in common are that they cause that the heating system can not get rid of heat, they cause a loss of coolant or they directly cause too much heat in the engine.

One first problem which might be the cause of an engine overheat is a problem with the radiator cap and the pressure it holds. If the radiator cap does not hold pressure correctly then coolant could boil and therefore the engine would overheat. Another reason might be caused by thermostat failures; it is recommendable that you check it.

The car engine might also overheat due to coolant leaks such as those from the radiator, the hoses, the water pump, the freeze plugs or any others. Also, problems in the water pump could be the cause and therefore you should check it and replace it in case it is needed.

Some other reasons by which the car engine could overheat are problems in the exhaust system which you can discover by checking vacuum readings, pipes and converter. Besides, you should also make sure that the radiator hose has not collapsed and the ignition timing is working properly.

You should also check the electric cooling fan by making sure that the fan motor, the relay and temperature are correct or otherwise it could cause the engine to overheat. Besides this, you should also check the radiator in case there are any debris in it as well as you should check its hose in case it has collapsed.

It is also recommendable that you check the antifreeze concentration which should be 50/50 in order to be correct, otherwise it could cause the car engine to overheat. If you do not find why your engine does overheat, you should ask a mechanic or an expert for advice. You should not try to fix this if you do not have the proper tools and general car knowledge necessary for it.

About the author:

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.autorized.comPlease visit his website to learn about auto maintenance, auto insurance, auto safety and much more!

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Driving Rules of the Road

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

The Rules of the Road

by: Kevin Schappell

With road rage being so common these days, we should all take a step back and review a few rules of the road. While not taught in most driver education classes or state driver’s manuals, these rules will help you be a better driver.

The left lane is for passing. If you are going to pass, do it quickly and safely. Some states have laws that prohibit “driving” in the left lane, leaving it open for passing only.

If someone is trying to merge onto the highway and you have room, get into the left lane. This can help avoid an accident or at the least make someone’s day a little brighter.

Be aware of large trucks and their driving styles. Tractor trailers, dump trucks, and other large vehicles can not stop as fast as you can. Keep that in mind the next time you squeeze in front of a truck at the stop light. Also, heavy trucks while on the highway will slow down while going up large hills but pick up speed on the downhill side. This can lead to a game of leap frog which will frustrate you and the truck driver. If possible get far enough ahead of the truck to avoid excessive passing!

Use your turn signals. I swear they were an option in some cars, considering most people do not use them. They are there as a signal to inform your fellow drivers where you plan to go.
I guess this has been a list of my pet peeves, but I hope it will help you have a safer trip down the road. Remember, we all share the road and together we can make it safer.

Take care and safe driving,

About the author:
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.autoeducation.com where he gives advice on car maintenance, buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles.www.autoeducation.com

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Fast Affordable Ways to Upgrade Your Chevy

Posted on October 22, 2010 by admin

Fast and Affordable Ways to Upgrade Your Chevy

by: Stacey Wilson

Imagination, that’s what you need if you want to jazz up your everyday driving. Admit it, sometimes you get a little bored of driving the same car everyday in your life. It’s normal, people want variety and value individuality; thus, the tendency for you is to find something unusual and extraordinary all the time.

Cars are perfect avenues for man’s penchant for new and unique things. You can customize it, replace your car’s auto parts and restyle it according to your liking. Car accessories are your means to do this easy and fast. Let Auto Parts Fast help you with your auto parts needs.

Featured in the store are thousands of premium quality and affordable Chevy Parts that are perfect for your car or truck’s upgrade, repair and modification. If you have an old Chevy model, a Chevrolet BelAir or a Chevrolet Pickup, for example, this all-inclusive auto parts online store can provide you the best performance parts, replacement Chevrolet Parts and the finest line of auto accessories that could not only boost your car’s exterior looks but its performance as well.

Among the excellent quality Chevy Parts offered at Auto Parts Fast are Chevy Grill , Chevrolet spoiler and Chevy Wheels . All these parts are made by top car parts manufacturers and are guaranteed to match Chevrolet’s own quality standards. You must make sure to get only high quality replacement parts for your Chevy so as not to sacrifice your driving and riding satisfaction, your comfort, convenience and most especially, your safety.

Chevy Grills with metal or plastic inserts are not just for ornamentation, they help improve your Chevy’s performance as it allows more air to pass through for more efficient cooling of the engine. Since during the combustion, the engine produces great amount of heat, it needs to be cooled in order to perform at its best. Replacing your old car’s grille with a fresh looking and exquisitely designed grill can be a perfect way to modify your vehicle’s front end and improve airflow.

Spoilers are excellent accessories that can also bring new life into your Chevy. Sports cars are usually fitted with spoilers for more aerodynamics, but you can also use this on your Chevy to give it an athletic look. Not only that, a Chevy spoiler can make your ride a lot more fun. Complement it with hot wheels accessorized with uniquely designed Chevy Hubcaps or Chevy Wheel Cover, you would surely be a head turner as you dive your car around the city.

Gain a lot of remarks from friends, make your ride more exciting, revive your old car and improve its performance, get top quality Chevrolet auto parts now only from your fastest, most trusted car parts dealer, Auto Parts Fast.

About the author:
As a former news correspondent for an auto-related website, Stacey has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive industry. This 34 year old mother of two from Memphis is a genuine car lover.

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