flood cars

Flood CarsWriten by Jack Cooper

There are hundreds of thousands of cars, trucks, classic cars, motorcycles and other types of vehicles that have moderate to severe flood damage, and many thousands more will be damaged this year, make sure you are prepared to be able to ferret this cars out before one winds up in your driveway.

Before buying get a suspected car,get a good pre inspection on the car or if a Classic Car etc. get a proper Classic Car Appraisal, then you will be armed to go to your insurance agent and get properly insured.

Some of these vehicles that have not been completely submerged will be cleaned up, freshner sprayed into carpets and vents and shipped North, East and West. These are the cars that will need expert Inspections and Appraisals, as they will be harder to detect.

The Dealers who deal in these vehicles get them dirt cheap and do some clean up and then ship them out to the unsuspecting public. These vehicles will look normal but after buying one of them you will most likely develope serious problems down the road. And this could be avoided if you have an expert Automotive Appraiser and or Inspector check it out for you.

These vehicles will have mold started that you won't be able to detect for some time and the odor will be covered up with some strong sprays that will hide the problem for several weeks/months. But then one warm day after being closed up in the sun you will open the door to a musty odor that will start to become worse each day until after a while it will be unbearable. And this type of odor is very hard to cover up for any length of time.

The odor may be the least of your problems for after a vehicle is submerged in water for any length of time the water and grit is in the engine, transmission, differential all the wheel bearings and working parts. So after driving the vehicle a few hundred miles you will start to develope major failures to these components.

Also the water will get into the electrical system of the vehicle and cause shorts in the wiring that may cause fires or serious damage to the computer system of the vehicle that will result in very high repair bills.

To avoid buying any of these vehicles you will need to have a complete inspection by an Automotive Inspection professional, to inspect or Appraise the vehicle for any tell tale signs of water damage. If you can't do this yourself hire a good mechanic to check it for you, or use a vehicle inspection service,like CarFacts, to determine if it has been in a flood or any type of accident or had major repairs.

Check title for previous owners and if it trails back to recent sales in the Hurricane/flood states pass up the sale even it seems to be a good deal as you may have some high repair bills later or worse, not even be able to salvage vehicle.

I know several people that had Classic Cars, Vintage Cars, Street Rods and high dollar Motorcycles that got severely damaged or destroyed only to find out their insurance coverage did not come close to covering the replacement cost of their vehicles. If only they would have had a proper Appraisal on their vehicles that could have all been avoided and their vehicle would have been covered for the proper amount.

Don't let that happen to you. It dosn't have to be a severe storm that damages your vehicle, it could be damaged by a fire, an accident or numerous other things, so check out the proper way to have your vehical Appraised at Carfacts Appraisal information.

Jack Cooper Occupation: Auto Appraiser/Inspector

Website: http://www.jtcbiz.com

Biography: I have over 40 years experience in the Automotive field, from ASE Master Tech to owner of my own repair shop and have been doing Automotive Appraisals and extended warranty/pre-purchase inspections for the past 12 years.

I have been working on building and just about anything connected with cars all my life. I have been a Drag Racer (early years) drove stock cars (asphalt and dirt) built Hot Rods and restored classic cars, so have been around just about any type of vehicle you can imagine.

My hobby is NASCAR and building web-sites. My current web-site http://www.jtcbiz.com is a site I started several years ago as an information site for Cars and expanded into trucks, 4X4's, ATV's, Motorcycles and NASCAR.

Thanks,

Jack Cooper

discount car rentral

Discount Car RentralWriten by Rebecka Whitlock

Do you need to rent a car? Are you going on a vacation or business trip? Are you on a tight budget and need to get the best possible rate? If you answered yes to any of these questions then this article is for you. In this article we will be discussing Discount car rental and things you can do to get the best rate.

Most reputable car rental places try to provide you with the lowest possible price and good service. They want you to be happy and return to them for any future business. However, if your looking for ways to lower the price even further then there are somethings that you can do. You can look into some of the smaller, independent rental companies. Many of them will attract business away from the major carriers by lowering their prices under theirs.

When renting from a smaller company, do your homework. Make sure you are getting what you would if you were renting from one of the major carriers. Most of them are fine but you still need to be careful. Carefully read you rental contract for any hidden extras they may slip in.

Another way to gain discount car rental is to look into travel packages. Sometimes travel agencies will offer car rental as a part of a holiday package. These work out sometimes as low as 10 dollars per day.

Finally, you can look into companies that dont offer extras. Things like unlimited mileage are additions we all pay for but if you know that youre not going to need it you may want to pay per mile. Some companies will rent at a much lower rate if they know your going to drive the car less than 50 miles. This can also reduce the insurance you pay on the car as well.

If youre on a tight budget then look into discount car rental. If youre careful, you can save loads of money and still enjoy a good time.

For more articles like this one, go to http://www.allcarrentals.info.

how to find the best paint protection system for your car

How To Find The Best Paint Protection System For Your CarWriten by Gregg Hall

You've been driving around in that old clunker your dad gave you when you went off to college for years and now you can finally afford a new car. You've finished college, started your new career and worked your way up the ladder enough to finally get the salary you deserve. You've had your eye on a particular model and you happily go off to the dealership to buy one. While you are there, the dealer may offer to sell you a paint protection system that is designed to keep the paint on your car looking new, car care products resources. After driving an old car that saw a new paint job over a decade ago, you want to do everything to maintain that beautiful look and what the dealer is saying may sound quite enticing. Beware, because what sounds too good to be true usually is.
Dealers get paid a substantial profit by selling you expensive car paint protection systems. How much they charge you will depend on how much they feel they can get out of you. Don't forget that these salespeople know all about your finances from your application and credit report. They know how much you make, how much you pay in housing and how much credit debt you have. This gives them a general idea of how much you can afford to pay. They may offer a debt laden person the system for $500 dollars and offer it to a person who has a lower amount of debt for $1500.00. Either way they are making a super profit and they do it under the guise of doing you a favor.
Admittedly, car paint protection is essential to any new car. Car paint can be damaged by the sun, hail, and dirt that are blown on a car. Wax can certainly keep a car shiny but can also allow dirt particles to stick to it. This means that when you go to wipe it down, the dirt or sand can actually cause damage to the paint job, since wiping the car will grind them into the paint.
The sun will also fade paint over time and if you live near the ocean, salt water will also harm the finish. This is why it's important to get a good car paint protection system. Just don't get it from a dealer. Part of the warranty may include having to bring the car in every 2 months to have the protection renewed. If you don't come in, then the warranty will be voided and you've lost the money that you invested in the system.
There are plenty of quality paint protection systems on the market that you can purchase for a fraction of the cost that the dealers offer them for and you can apply and maintain them yourself. Visit your auto supply store or go online to research and find the best one for you.
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a paint protection at www.5starshine.com

enhance your volkswagens safety style and performance now featured at auto parts deal

Enhance Your Volkswagen's Safety, Style, and Performance Now Featured at Auto Parts DealWriten by Sarah McBride

Through the years, Volkswagen has truly lived by its name as the people's car. It has created some of the most popular automobiles in the history of cars, including the world's highest-selling car, the Volkswagen Golf and the legendary Volkswagen Beetle. Volkswagen's distinct styling and tough and durable auto parts are the things that make this vehicle near to the hearts of millions of people worldwide. Moreover, these explain why you can still see a lot of old Volkswagen models, like the Beetle still driving through major roads almost everywhere. Volkswagen automobiles and Volkswagen Parts are designed to last and give you the most satisfying ride.

It is however, unavoidable to experience some problems as you drive your Volkswagen everyday; hence, at least once or twice, you might need to have your auto repaired or its parts replaced. Especially when damaged in an accident, your Volkswagen might require additional parts to bring back its excellent condition once again. Auto Parts Deal is your greatest solution for any replacement auto parts needs. Available here are not only the best replacement and aftermarket products for Volkswagen but as well as top of the line BMW Parts, Chevorlet Parts, Mazda parts, Ford Parts, Mercedes Benz parts, Jeep Parts, Suzuki parts, Toyota Parts, Dodge parts, Nissan Parts and a lot more.

Featured online today are excellent quality Volkswagen Parts that include accessories, auto lights and performance auto parts that are perfect for your budget. With these superbly designed car parts available at Auto parts Deal, you get the chance to improve your favorite auto and at the same time, save big on your replacement and aftermarket auto parts needs. Sourced from the most trusted auto parts makers, these parts are guaranteed to give your vehicle the most efficient service.

Among the discount Volkswagen Parts offered are Volkswagen Rabbits Parts and Volkswagen Scirocco Parts. The Volkswagen Wheels, for example, adds athletic appeal to your Volks. With this simple auto part, you can change the way your car looks and of course, your typical driving day. Likewise, adding a Volkswagen spoiler can make your car appear like a racing car.

For your safety, a complete Volkswagen headlight, Volkswagen Cabrio Tail light assembly, and Volkswagen Golf Projector headlight are available. Make sure to replace your busted lights immediately to avoid damaging and more costly accidents. Small things like these auto parts save life so get them here at your trusted online dealer.

Other replacement auto parts for Volkswagen featured today are Volkswagen Cabriolet Headlight retainer ring, Volkswagen Passat window regulator and Volkswagen Cabriolet radiator fan motor. Check out the site for more details on these parts and enjoy a worry-free online shopping.

As a manager of one of the largest auto stores in Springfield, Massachusettes, Sarah has extensive expertise on auto parts and automotives in general. This 42-year old lady is a certified car enthusiast.

auto repair cost estimates 10 things you just never say to your mechanic

Auto Repair Cost Estimates: 10 Things You JUST NEVER SAY to Your MechanicWriten by Theodore Olson

When speaking to your mechanic or service representative, there are many things one should never say. Sad as this is, certain questions and requests can trigger multiple price-gouging tactics from your service center. Following is a list of ten statements in random order. The term mechanic may be exchanged for technician, service representative, service advisor, owner, service manager, or anyone that you deal with when having your vehicle serviced.

1) Do I need a tune-up?

This innocent question seeks to ensure that your vehicle is up-to-speed with its maintenance. However, it reveals that you know nothing about your cars maintenance and can therefore be easily taken advantage of.

What your mechanic is thinking: Putty in my hands!

Instead: ask what services are due for your vehicle given its age and mileage according to your manufacturer guidelines. Also visit the maintenance link at the end of this article for an overview of todays maintenance needs.

2) Do I need tires?

Essentially what youre asking is whether or not your tires are safe, and if they are wearing normally given the current mileage.

What your mechanic is thinking: Cha-Ching!

Instead: ask that your tires be checked to ensure that they are wearing normally given the current mileage. You should be provided with tread-depth measurements, and any other notable conditions such as cupping, abnormal wear, sidewall damage, bubbles, dry-rotcracks or splits in the rubberand any other pertinent information.

3) Im taking a trip.

This comment is a safety concern. Its great that youre taking a triphave a nice timebut your mechanic doesnt need to know this.

What your mechanic is thinking: This guys nervous about his car making the trip. I can sell him anything! You may even see a reflection of $$$$ signs flash in his eyes.

Instead: tell your mechanic to ensure that your vehicle is in sound condition. You want to ensure it is operating as designed. If you are following a factory maintenance schedule with a decent service center, they should be keeping you up-to-date with your vehicles condition and needs. If not, find another shop.

4) My sons going off to college.

Congratulations, but your mechanic doesnt need to know this either. Youre concern is with your vehicles integrity in order to protect your child.

What your mechanic is thinking: Daddy can foot the college billCha-Ching!

Instead: ask that your vehicle be checked over to determine that its in sound operating condition, as you would like to keep it for a few years (hopefully four). Request a list of anything your vehicle may need in the order of prioritysafety being the most important factor.

5) I know its probably something bad.

Itll be bad alright. The service industry is extremely negative. Dont add to it!

What your mechanic is thinking: Bad for you, anyway.

Instead: keep a positive attitude. If youre frustrated or nervous about the expense, then say that. In truth, most repairs are simple. If not, find another shop, or get another car.

6) Take all the time you need. I just want it fixed right.

Youre clearly patient, and probably a perfectionist, which is fine. But

What your mechanic is thinking: Charge all the money I need! Charge all the money I want!

Instead: try saying, I am particular about my car, and would like it fixed correctly the first time. Please make your best effort to put my vehicle in the hands of the most qualified technician to address my concern(s). And please keep me up-to-date with its progress and any additional costs.

7) Just do whatever.

You either really dont care or money is not an issue.

What your mechanic is thinking: Charge whatever!

Instead: take a moment and say, Please perform all services according to manufacturer guidelines only. If my vehicle needs any further repairs, please notify me in advance with the break down of the costs.

8) Im taking a trip to Europe; please drop my car off at the Ritz-Carlton when youre done.

Drop offs are a common requestalthough Europe and the Ritz arent so common.

What your mechanic is thinking: Actually, in this case, hes probably singingIm in the moneyIm in the money

Instead: request what services you would like while youre away, but then provide a contact number to be notified of any additional services, recommendations, and costs.

9) Just fix it.

This request generally reflects one who lacks the time or patience to worry about the details, and wants his or her vehicle back as quickly as possible.

What your mechanic is thinking: No ProblemoMucho Dinero!

Instead: remember that the devils in the details. Request to be notified of any additional costs to demonstrate that your wallet is not a free-for-all.

10) Do you want my credit card now?

The motive here may be expediency and efficiency.

What your mechanic is thinking: No problem paying! No problem charging!

Instead: request that you be advised of any costs above and beyond what you agree to at the time of your appointment. Pay after. Always pay after.

All the above comments, requests, and questions, while innocent, are taken advantage of daily in the automotive service industry. These statements reveal your hand. You may have a long and trusting relationship with your service center, but for Gods sake, keep your cards in!

Theres a lot of truth in humor.

The truth stings a bit.

The truth EMPOWERS.

-Theodore P. Olson (Ted)

Common Auto Repairs Price Guide

Maintenance Time Saver

Theodore P. Olson (Ted) holds extensive certifications from Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, General Motors, ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and more. Ted is the author of eight books and numerous articles on the automotive service industry.

Other Works by Ted Olson Include:

• ARREST the Automotive Service Industry!


• Maintenance Myths: A Step-by-Step Guide to STOP Getting Ripped Off!


• Auto Repair: The Shocking Truth About Who's Ripping You Off and Why!


• Automotive Service Pricing Strategiesa fair pricing guide for service centers


• Being the Besta comprehensive customer service handbook for service advisors


• Service Center Personnelan auto repair informational for general service staff


• Service Mission Statementa philosophical proposal to improve customer service

what are good classic car classifieds

What Are Good Classic Car ClassifiedsWriten by Harvey Ong

When people think of buying a car, the first thing on their minds are car classifieds. The same is true for classic cars; classic car classifieds exist as well. The fact is that, regardless of what connections one has, there is no definite way to determine just who is selling what for how much. In a fluctuating, active game like that which classic car classifieds cater to, a comprehensive listing that is as up-to-date as possible is essential for many. After all, some collectors are going to be willing to part with one of their machines and, at the same time, another collector is going to be looking to add another vehicle to his extensive collection.

Classic car classifieds are very similar to their counterparts for more usual cars. These classifieds are listings of ads placed by people looking to sell their classic automobile, though some of these classifieds also contain sections for people looking to buy a specific classic car. Some classifieds have also taken an idea from a variety of their online counterparts and included listings for parts and supplies related to the maintenance of classic cars. The usual details put into an ad include the make and model of the car, what condition the car is in, the price, the contact information of the person selling the car, and the seller's location. While not common, some listings also allow for the submission of buyers looking for specific cars. These instances are rare but, according to some reports, they are increasing.

Also, since the definition of what a classic car actually is tends to vary from group to group, so do the listings. Some classic car classifieds will outright reject a car ad if it does not fit in with their standard list of what constitutes an automobile classic. As such, it is advisable to first check the limitations and terms of a particular listing to see if the car you are trying to sell would fit with their definition of a classic auto. Details to look out for include the relative age of the machine, the specific make, model, and year of the car, and whether or not that particular car listing has a specific list of models they will accept. Despite all these restrictions, however, these listings are still a car collectors best chance and finding that car to complete his personal collection.

As previously stated, the classic car classifieds are a collector's best bet at finding that one car to complete their collection. These listings also serve as a great resource for maintenance because more and more are including listings of parts for sale, as well as the few places where one can have parts specially made or ordered. Classic car classifieds still have a few problems, like the fact that none of them can seem to agree on what is or is not a classic car, but there are so many of them that it isn't hard to find a listing that will fit your needs.

For more valuable information on Classic Car Classifieds, please visit http://classifieds.itrustmotors.com//cgi-bin/classifieds.cgi?db=classic

hot rods and muscle cars

Hot Rods and Muscle CarsWriten by Jimmy Wilson

Hot Rods & Muscle Cars

If you are of the 50's 60's or 70's era generation you know that hot rods and muscle cars dominated the average male gender, and yes, even the females couldn't help but turn their heads when a slick vintage car drove by. The times have changed but the desire to see those vintage cars has not. Those who have preserved those classic cars are as appreciated as the disc-jockeys today, that spin the classic tunes of yesteryear.

Hot Rods and Muscle Cars are forever etched into our being as the ultimate personal statements that we proudly display to one and all who see them at car shows or if you should see one pass by on the highway. Hot Rods and Muscle Cars say a lot about what makes America the proud nation we are. To delve into the psychic just a bit, hot rods have always been notorious for rebellion and attention getting tools for whatever the teenage group of the times was encountering. Whether it was rebelling against their parents, or rebelling against the establishment, hot rods and muscle cars are and always will be a nostalgic part of our culture.

Hot Rods and Muscle Cars come in every imaginable shape condition and modification. The amount of customization done to a hot rod is the extension of the builder's imagination and frustration of his views on conventional styling. This in itself is not a bad thing. One can draw from one perspective as a new dimension on life and style in the hallowed United States. A sense of pride in country cannot be dismissed by the mere existence of hot rods and muscle cars.

To catch a glimpse of the ever-popular hot rods and muscle cars one merely needs to ask around their local auto repair shop for any upcoming car shows. The auto mechanics are forever mindful of those elusive hot rods and muscle cars from years gone by. The near forgotten auto mechanics or shade-tree mechanics we choose to refer to them, have all but waned away due to the computer diagnostic age. A mechanic now-a-days must be equipped with all the latest in electrical diagnostic equipment to compete with the dealerships to eek out a living. But fear not, there are still those die hard mechanics who love nothing more than to get there hands on a classic hot rod or muscle car just to rekindle the rumble of those quadra-jets or three duce's in a slick bodied car from days gone by.

We found one gentleman that has taken his love of the classic t-bucket roadsters and set up his garage to produce new roadsters from yesteryear designs. He can build one from his laser sighted frame jig, all the way to completion right from his own shop. Every detail is hand crafted so he knows what went into making the finished roadster. He will gladly build you a custom made roadster for a very reasonable price. It's his way of keeping the tradition and styling alive for generations that missed the golden years of hot rods and muscle cars.

To see more about Hot Rods and Muscle Cars :

http://wealthsmith.com/hot-rods-muscle-cars.htm

Jim is an avid online netpreneur that enjoys sharing his unique finds on the web and off. Visit his latest find: http://wealthsmith.com/hot-rods-muscle-cars.htm