Things You Should Do When Going For A Test Drive

Buying a car can be expensive no matter how you spin it. But what’s more costly is purchasing one that isn’t actually worth the money you spent! So here are some tips for you to make the most well-informed decision when you’re about to go for a test drive.

Do Your Research

When you go to a car dealer, you’d find that you gravitate towards the kinds of cars that you already like. So before you even go there and look into every information you can get about that specific model. If you can find a guide on the dealers website or brands website that you like that would be great. Those guides usually has all the current models and their specs. The car manufacturers provide all the details so you can have peace of mind that you are actually getting factual data. Some dealers even have a form that you can fill out after reading the guide where you can request a test drive on the car that you’ve picked.

If you’re having a hard time choosing between a couple of vehicles, try to compare their specs sheet side by side so you can have a better look at which is better based on your needs in a car.

Familiarize Yourself With The Car

It’s easy to be blinded with desire once your dream car is right in front of you. Besides, you've probably have researched it a million times online and have seen every possible photos or videos so you think you already know everything there is to know about it. However, the image that you have in your head isn’t always how things are in real life. So you really have to be critical and make sure you've got everything covered by inspecting the exterior and interior thoroughly.

Check features that might affect your daily drive like misplaced cup holders, hard-to-operate buttons, inadequate trunk space, and ease of entry and exit for the driver, front, rear, and 3rd row passengers (applicable). Some models also feature folding 2nd and 3rd row seats to maximize cargo capacity, which is an added bonus. For pickup trucks, make sure to check if the rear bed has the size that you’re looking for. Some dealerships also offer bed liners that protect the payload. The fit and finish of the whole interior is also something that you should be looking at. See if the panel gaps are even and take note of any irregularity. However, take note that the quality of materials greatly depends on the vehicle’s SRP.

Feel The Drive And Make A Mental Note Of What You've Noticed

Once you’re about to give the car a test drive, don’t assume you’re done scrutinizing. This is just actually the time you need to really focus on how it feels while driving it because that’s where the make or break happens. Although test drive are often done within the showroom, ask and see if they can allow you to drive the car further.

Now don’t be too excited and drive right away. Sit and check things that you can while you’re at the driver seat. Are the gauges legible? Can you easily adjust the seat to your comfort? Does it fit well to into the cabin? Can you effortlessly check the side mirrors and see all corners of the vehicle? Since you’ll be the one driving, see if you have no problem reaching the steering wheel and pedals. If you do, are the both adjustable? Remember that these two are what allows you to safely and comfortably maneuver the automobile so they should feel just right for you.

Now onto the performance. What you've learned in your research based on the manufacturer’s claims should match well while you’re driving it. See if it can actually produce as much power as it says on its specs sheet. Try to accelerate and decelerate and see if the brake pedals is as responsive as if your life depends on it. Now just because it’s a test drive doesn't mean you can’t try different kinds of parking. If it comes with park assist system then check how accurate it is. Test the knobs, use the signal lights, toggle the headlamps, and try everything that you see on the dashboard. Ask questions if needed.

Let’s go to the comfort factor. Is the air conditioning and head unit working as it should? Does it cool the car down easily and adjusts to extreme outdoor heat? If you can, take someone with you so you can verify how the ventilation feels at the rear seats. How about the head unit, can you operate it while driving without distraction? Do you find it easy to figure out the unit’s interface? If you’re someone who like music while driving, then check that too. Does your music player or phone connects well to the stereo? Try and check everything that you know you’ll be needing and using while driving if it becomes your car because that way you’ll be able to kind of see how the experience will be on a regular basis. The car maybe brand new but if things feel off right off the bat don’t disregard it otherwise you might visit the car servicing shop sooner than you should be.

Reflect On The Experience

Assuming you did those checks, then make sure you’ve made a mental note on them. Because after test driving it you have to rely on that initial driving experience and see if the car fits your needs and preferences. Don’t feel like you have to make a decision right away. A car is not a cheap purchase so take your time weighing its pros and cons. Go ahead and list them down if you have to. Just remember that no matter how high-end the cars you’ve tried driving, they’ll have features they will come short to your requirements. That’s where you compromise and go for the one that you can live with for a long time.

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Things You Should Know About Engine Coolant

Things You Should Know About Engine Coolant

Your car runs on six types of fluid that does different jobs in order to keep your car in good running condition. But like any fluid, they’re not permanently there as they need to be topped up and replaced every now and then because otherwise they will deteriorate and have opposite effect to your car.

One of those fluids is the coolant which allows your engine to maintain safe temperature while running. So you can’t deny how important this fluid is for your car. Learn more about engine coolant and keep your car and your wallet free from avoidable car repair expenses.

When To Check On Your Coolant

If you follow your preventive maintenance service schedule, then you’re most likely up to date when it comes to your coolant checkup. But you should also take your driving distance every time you drive into consideration. So to be safe, it’s best to do it once every two weeks.

That may sound too often since coolants typically lasts longer than that, but you’d be wise to check still to see if there’s a leak. This is often the reason why your car overheat and your fuel economy gets affected if you run on little to no coolant too.

When To Change Your Coolant

So now you know how often you should be checking your coolant, you’re probably wondering how to figure out if it’s time to change your coolant. Well, if you have a modern car, it is usually advised to flush it out every 10 years or 160, 000 km. Check your user manual to confirm it because it may still depend on the vehicle you drive, the brand or type of coolant you use, and the distance you cover over a period of time. It’s important that you adhere to the suggested coolant change interval as it may cause your car to overheat at a maximum level if you don’t.

What Happens When You Miss Changing It

Coolant becomes acidic when left in the engine for a very long time. When your coolant becomes acidic, it would no longer keep rust from attacking your engine. Rust on the insides of your engine spells out disaster, as you could face more expensive services just to save your engine from dying—for good. However, it isn’t just your engine that’s at stake. Coolant also keeps your radiators from corrosion so you’re also putting the components of your cooling system at risk.

Signs That You Need To Change Your Coolant

For whatever reason that you fail to change your coolant or haven’t checked on it for a while, you may start noticing problems in your car. Pay attention to these signs to hopefully get it fixed right away and reverse the damage early on.

Your Car Overheats Quickly

Your car’s cooling system is what’s keeping it from overheating. So when the cooling system’s running condition becomes less ideal due to leaks then your car run the risk of overheating. This is why it’s always advised to fix even the smallest leak as soon as possible in order to avoid overheating and possibly an expensive car repair.

There’s Leak On The Floor

The coolant, as the name suggests, helps the radiator to cool down.  However, when there’s a leak or crack in the radiator, you’ll see coolant leak on the floor underneath your car, since the coolant flows through the radiator.

You Can Smell A Sweet Scent While Your Car Is Running

While it may smell nice, this could actually mean engine coolant is leaking from a component related to car’s cooling system. Just remember not to touch the radiator cup when it’s hot in attempt to check what’s wrong.

Coolant Level Depletes

If the level is below the minimum line, top it up to the maximum line and monitor on a daily basis. If you have to top up the coolant reservoir each time it is checked, this could indicate a leak. If it seems that you vehicle is always low on coolant then it’s reasonable to suspect that your radiator have gone bad or at least failing.

Think car maintenance and car servicing are an unnecessary expenditure? Think again! Because by keeping your car in good running condition means not needing to buy a new ride after every couple of years, not spending money on major car repairs due to malfunction, and more importantly avoiding hospital and damage expenses in case of an accident because of malfunction too.

The more you keep its maintenance up-to-date the more your car’s condition is restored therefore prolonging its lifespan. With that, you’ll be able to enjoy your car longer than it would if you just let minor damages turn into unrepairable ones due to neglect.

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Top 5 Questions You Should Ask

 Yourself Before Going On A Road Trip

Top 5 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Going On A Road Trip

Road trips are fun and exciting! It’s a great way to explore new places while gaining a lot of benefits like being able to sharpen your mind, seeing things in new and brighter way, building your confidence to try new things and get out of your comfort zone. But the question is, are you fully ready to go on a road trip? To make sure you get the best out of your travel experience and that you’re prepared when unexpected things come your way on the road, here are the questions you should ask yourself before you even start packing.

1. Do I Know How To Change A Flat Tire?

A flat tire is one of the simplest road troubles that you should expect especially on long drives. But then, even if it’s pretty easy to change a flat tire, the question is do you know how to do it? Don’t assume you can always find someone to help change it for you. So better learn this essential skill before you find yourself in a middle of nowhere with a flat tire.

2. When Was The Last Time I Had My Car Checked?

If you can’t even remember, then chances are it’s been a while. If this is the case, take your car to your trusted car servicing shop for repair and maintenance as soon as you can before your trip. This should ensure you that you vehicle is in top condition and lessen your chances of car troubles when you hit the road.

3. Do I Know The Emergency Hotlines?

Even the most prepared and careful drivers out there get into trouble because of circumstances that are out of our control like the weather. If you get caught up in such cases, you better know the hot lines of proper authorities to call for help.

4. Do I Have Car Tools?

It’s great to learn basic car repairs so that you don’t depend on mechanics every time something needs to be done on your car, especially if you’re on the road. However, having the skills is only half of the solution. You also have to have necessary tools to actually do the repair! If you don’t have tools, maybe it’s time that you buy them.

5. Do I Have A Copy Of My Car’s Documents?

In case you run into a problem, you can easily present all the necessary documents to the authorities. These include the original and photocopy printouts of your car's official receipt, car registration, insurance form, and driver's license.

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Driving Mistakes You Want To Avoid With Automatic Cars

Driving Mistakes You Want To Avoid With Automatic Cars

A lot of people, especially young new car owners, would prefer driving an automatic not only because it’s more widely known and used nowadays but also because it’s almost effortless to drive which means you get a smooth ride. However, just because it’s easier to drive an automatic doesn't mean you won’t get problems with it if you don’t drive it properly. So to make sure that that doesn't happen, here are the things that you definitely shouldn’t do while driving an automatic.

Engaging P Before Coming Into A Full Stop

When your gear stick is engaged to P (Park) what happens is that, it stops the transmission from rotating which prevent your car from moving forward and backward. Do that while the car is in motion and you risk damaging the locking pin that locks up the automatic transmission. This is why it’s never a good idea to engage P when you’re still moving. The same thing when you’re at a stop light, you still shouldn’t engage P. This is because you’ll have to go through R (reverse) and N (Neutral) before you can shift the lever to D (Drive) when the light turns green which takes a lot of effort for the vehicle to do. Aside from that, when shifting from P to D, sometimes people accidentally engage to either R or N which could be a problem when you’re on a bumper to bumper traffic situation. 

Going ‘Neutral’ At Stop Lights

You've probably heard the unwritten rule of not putting your car on D at a stop light in order to avoid wearing out the transmission. While that may make sense, sometimes putting the vehicle in N at a stop light can be a problem too. How so? Well, people tend to forget things, even actions that they just did like going Neutral at a stop light. As a result, they end up revving the engine to no avail when the light turns green which waste fuel when doing so. This is why you may want to keep the gear in D, even at stop lights, unless you’re really going to a full stop.

Changing Gears While The Vehicle Is Moving

Some drivers who are parking their vehicle tend to change gears even while the vehicle is still in motion. Switching gears while the vehicle is moving is a habit that you should break because this can damage the vehicle’s transmission. If you want to shift from D to R or vice versa, you should wait for the vehicle to stop moving before doing so.

Coasting In Neutral

Putting your gear stick in N limits your control over the car. So while coasting in neutral to save gas is a good thing, you should prioritize having full control of your ride while moving which only happens of your gear is in D because this allows you to react faster and safer. Besides, most modern automatic cars nowadays are designed to be fuel efficient even if the gear is in D, so there’s really no point in compromising full control over your car while driving. 

Launching Your Car

In a nutshell, ‘launching’ is accelerating a vehicle from standstill, similar to drag racing. This works by revving your engine while the gear is in N and dropping it into D to launch the vehicle forward. While this may amuse your friends, launching an automatic car is not a good thing because this will wear out the bands in your transmission. You may look cool for the time being doing that, but you may end up with pricey car repairs in the long run. It’s not worth it dude.

Majority of cars today are automatic. So if you’re looking for a specific car, it’ll be easier to find if you prefer it over manual. Also, shifting or using the clutch pedal will be the least of your problems. Considering that shifting isn’t an issue with automatic transmission car, you can rest assured that you’ll have a smooth ride. However, with a complex system, a lot could go south on you which of course means maintenance will follow. If you don’t mind not having the “hands-on” precision drivers usually get with manual, then this might work for you. And just like everything else in life, innovation comes with a price. Be prepared to shell out more cash if you prefer automatic transmission cars. So, you’d really want to avoid these mistakes to avoid unnecessary repairs and expenses in the future.

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How To Do A Quick Car Safety Check

How To Do A Quick Car Safety Check

How many people nowadays even check if they have enough fuel or replenish the water in the windshield washer bottle? A quick car safety inspection is always recommended every time you use your car but no one hardly do it even when going for long trips. What many people don’t realize is that spending a couple of minutes doing car inspection could prevent a lot of road mishaps or get you out of one with minimal injury and damages. If you don’t wanna be the one ending up sorry later and have someone telling you I told you so, make it a habit to at least do the following whenever you’re taking your car out for a ride.

Tires

Tires heat up and wears faster on long trips, add that to a hot weather and you’re a sure candidate for blowouts. So you better see to it that you’re not driving with really worn tires, if you are then replacing them before you leave is a must. Doing visual inspection will also keep you aware of wear, cracks, slipped belts, bulges or other abnormalities when it comes to your tires. Moreover, don’t neglect your spare. If you have a properly inflated spare then you can change your own tire when the need arise and save you tow bill or road service call.

Under The Car

Since you’re already kneeling by the tires, then might as well take a quick look under to see if there’s any oil or coolant leak.

Windows And Mirrors

Your car windows and mirrors help you see the road clearly from all necessary angles. So don’t underestimate their importance. All you have to do is make sure they’re clean and not blurry from dust and dirt and if there are no cracks as those things can affect visibility.

Wipers

As mentioned above, visibility is vital when you’re driving, so if your windshield wipers are failing already then replace it. To see if they’re still good, you just need to run your fingers along the rubber part to make sure they’re still supple to touch. If they’re hard then it’s time for replacement. Don’t wait until you’re driving on a rainy day and the wipers can’t clear the windshield before you realize how important it is not just for car grooming but also for your safety. It’s worth checking the windscreen washer works too.

The Fluids

While learning to change your fluids is a different thing, you should at least know how to see if you’re running low or it needs to be changed or if there’s  a leak. Clutch fluid, which is often the same with brake fluid, coolant, windshield wash and power steering fluid should be at appropriate level, especially if you’re going on a long ride. Otherwise you’d be risking accident or breakdown on the road.

The Lights

Sit in your car, turn each light or signal and have someone see if they’re working or not. Don’t settle with blinking lights; if they’re not fully functional replace the bulbs. Don’t wait until it’s time to go before you do this because it takes time. Bringing spare bulbs for each light won’t hurt either, just in case.

Seatbelt

Not to be too morbid but your seatbelt is the only thing that’s keeping your head from smashing onto the windshield and be thrown completely out of the vehicle in case of a collision. So always check of it locks properly and give it a tug to see if it still has a good resistance.

Driving doesn't seem like a life-threatening activity because you’re essentially just going from one place to another. But even when you’re already at your destination and parking your car, an accident can still happen. Doesn't matter if it’s a minor accident or not but the point is, as a car owner, you’d want to avoid it as much as possible. Not only because your life and others life can be put at risk but also because it may mean hefty car repair cost as well as other damages. So, aside from investing in a better car complete with the latest safety features like front crash avoidance system and active blind-spot detection system, it helps to perform quick check before going out to see if there are any problem that may lead to an accident on the road.

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Regularly Scheduled Car Maintenance

 You Don’t Wanna Screw Up

Regularly Scheduled Car Maintenance You Don’t Wanna Screw Up

Think car maintenance and car servicing are an unnecessary expenditure? Think again! Because by keeping your car in good running condition means not needing to buy a new ride after every couple of years, not spending money on major car repairs due to malfunction, and more importantly avoiding hospital and damage expenses in case of an accident because of malfunction too.

The more you keep its maintenance up-to-date the more your car’s condition is restored therefore prolonging its lifespan. With that, you’ll be able to enjoy your car longer than it would if you just let minor damages turn into unrepairable ones due to neglect.

Tires
If you’re not sure about the recommended tire rotation interval, check your owner’s manual or you do it every other time you get an oil change. Doing this regularly promotes even tread wear and helps the tire perform as designed.

Also, they shouldn't be overinflated nor under inflated. Otherwise they’ll wear out faster than they typically should and will affect vehicle handling and fuel economy. To avoid this, check your owner’s manual for recommended tire pressure and always stick to that. It’s best to check your tires’ pressure at least once a month but do it more often if you always go on long trips or you carry heavy loads all the time.

Fluid Levels
It does feel like you are spending more by adhering to maintenance schedule when there seems to be nothing wrong with your car. But that’s exactly the point, by ensuring that you have the correct levels of oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, wiper fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid all the time, you can avoid expensive car repair as well as risking your life while on the road.

Wipers
Most young driver doesn't pay much attention to this. But, you’d realize how important maintaining well-functioning wipers are when it’s raining and you need to clear your view but your wipers won’t do their job. Visibility is vital when you’re driving, so replace them every 6 months or at least once a year.

Air Filter
Okay, here’s the thing, your air filter job is to make sure you are breathing clean air as you drive. When the air filter itself becomes too dirty to function it puts your health to risk because it could pump your car full of dust and allergens. This is why it’s important to change your filter every three months, as it also prevents airborne contaminants from being pulled into your car’s engine. Don’t worry it’s so simple you can easily do it yourself as long as you follow instructions on your owner’s manual, so no need to spend on car grooming services in Singapore. 

Battery
There’s a battery cleaning brush available in the market that you can use if there’s a leak, mineral, or other build-up in the contacts. Dirt and dampness can damage a battery case, causing it to lose charge. To avoid this, ensure that the case and terminals are checked and cleaned during car services. If you notice corrosion or acid on battery terminals, clean it off with water and cover the terminal connection with grease to avoid it recurring. Might as well buy a cheap battery tester or jump starter in case you find yourself in need for a jump, while you’re at it.

Oil Change
Always consult your owner’s manual to know your car’s required oil change interval. Don’t just think it’s every 3,000 miles because it’s a standard. It differs for every car. Motor Oils Have Antioxidants. This antioxidants helps limit oxygen exposure for moving parts which could cause rust and corrosion. Therefore, forgoing oil change is actually putting your car at risk of damages. Aside from that, try to use only the grade, viscosity or weight of oil that is set for your particular car.

Spark Plugs
Check and replace your spark plugs if you don’t want to compromise your engine’s performance. You can get them changed regularly, as specified in your manual, to prevent breakdown and wasting money on fuel. Spark plugs in good condition result in the engine running cleaner and more efficiently. Why? Because it ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine combustion chamber a lot better. Check yours always and replace when necessary.

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Things You Need To Learn About Paint Protection Film

Things You Need To Learn About Paint Protection Film

It sucks to find a scratch on your car, even if it’s so tiny right? Well, getting an unsightly scratch on your car’s paint is never fun because touching up even the smallest one cost time and money. So why not invest in a paint protection film for your car and avoid paint damage in the first place. Sounds good right? But for those who have no idea about paint protection film, it’s normal to feel hesitant about it. So here are the things that you need to learn about it to get a better idea of what you’re getting out of investing in this procedure.

1. Not All Paint Protection Products Are The Same

Don’t just settle with a known product because it’s what popular. Always shop around and compare price and quality. Sometimes a different store offer discounts that other stores don’t or carry better kinds of paint protection product. Until you find the best one for your needs and budget, keep looking around.

2. Prevention Is Better Than You But It’s Not Too Late For Older Cars

Like most things, prevention is better than cure. A good paint protection system should protect your car long-term. However, if you haven’t protected your car from day one – a good system should be able to improve your car considerably, with a notable difference and also continue to further protect your car from the day you have applied the paint protection product. 

3. You Shouldn't Settle With Car Waxing

Most people love shiny cars because it makes the car look expensive and sleek. To achieve this look, they often opt to wax their car because we all know wax can help give that sparkling effect. However, the problem with this is that it is temporary and easily melts especially when constantly exposed in the sun. A much better option will be paint protection because it can provide the same luster for your car but is more durable compared to wax so it last longer.

4. Dirt Can Damage Your Paintwork

People don’t just seek car servicing in Singapore due to engine problems, more often than not it’s due to exterior damage from different kinds of dirt like grease, grime, and bird poop. When left unattended for extended period of time, they can cause serious paint damage on your car. Avoid the stress and unnecessary expenses by keeping your vehicle clean. 

5. There Are Reasons Why Car Dealers Tend To Be Drawn Towards Certain Products

Popular car dealers have to take care of their reputation if they want to stay on top of their business. In order to do this, they have to maintain the quality of products and services that they provide. This is why they only use good paint protection products that gives an incredible glass shine and maintains the value of your new car.

6. A Car’s Paint Work Helps Maintain Its Value And Can Increase Resale Value

Every time you do something on your car to either upgrade its look or performance, it either maintains or increases its value. By deciding to invest in paint protection film you are definitely increasing its value because this prevents exterior damage while making your car look attractive!

7. It’s Totally Unnoticeable

Worried the film will be visible? Worry not because it won’t be! Just make sure you’re using high quality brand and have a professional apply it for you to ensure a smooth finish.

8. It’s Very Reliable Because It Was Originally Developed To The U.S. Military

When equipment, tool, or anything is designed or intended to be used for U.S. military, you know the quality is good. So you can rest assured that you spent your money well.

9. Custom Installation Offers Better Protection

Okay, maybe you’re a bit reluctant to avail custom installation because you know it costs more and you want to save money as much as possible. But, remember that smart investments, in terms of paint protection, are those where you spend quite a bit but offer better fit and best coverage which you know will last longer.

Whatever the problem with your car’s paint, do not wait too long to get it fixed, especially if the car’s body has been exposed. If you wait until chips and dings on your car turn into rust before you take care of it, prepare yourself for bigger problem and heftier car repair costs. Without protection, the bodywork of the car can begin to corrode. Regular cleaning and drying of the car will be sufficient to handle most problems. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to inspect your car for more serious damage.

Here are more reasons for you to want paint protection film installed on your car and realize how much you and your ride will benefit from it more than you thought it would!