Automotive Info

Archive for June, 2011

What To Do If Your Car Door Freezes?

Whether you have been living in a cold climate for some time or you have recently moved to one you will find that one problem that you have to deal with in the winter is a frozen car lock!nbsp; When water gets into the keyhole of your car you will find that it can create a block of ice which results in you being unable to open up your car.nbsp; This can have results from you being unable to get to work on time to being unable to leave your home at all so make sure that if this happens to you that you keep a few tips in mind.

Check all the doors.
There is more than one way to get into your car but if your lock is frozen over you may be a little too flustered to think about it!nbsp; Remember that if you can get into another door you can start the car and get it warmed up.nbsp; Check all the doors on your car and the hatch if you have one to see if you are going to be able to get into it.

Use a chemical deicer.
Visit any gas station of automotive outlet and you can be sure that they carry this product.nbsp; Essentially simply by spraying deicer into the keyhole you will be able to melt the ice.nbsp; There are containers of this substance that will fit on your key chain making it quite convenient.nbsp; Stick the nozzle in past the metal flap that typically keeps debris from getting in.

Heat up your key
On way to get the the ice out of your lock is to heat up your key with a lighter.nbsp; This is quite simple but be careful not to burn yourself!nbsp; In cases where the ice is light this is perhaps the easiest way to get back into your car.

Use a blowdryer
If you are able to run an extension cord from your house to the garage and turn a blow dryer on your keyhole.nbsp; This is a great way to get fast results and you will find that you can get on the road again in no time.

Pour warm water into the keyhole
This is something that you want to try if the temperature is just a few degrees below freezing.nbsp; Pour warm water into the lock is one way to make sure that it melts but in some cases depending on how cold it is the water might simply freeze inside the lock!nbsp; This is just something to try if you have other options but the hot water is currently the handiest.

Take some time and really think about how to make sure that you can get into your car should the locks freeze.nbsp; There are plenty of options so don’t panic and approach the situation as calmly as you can.

About the writer:  Access Lock amp; Key is the leading Raleigh Locksmith for commercial residential and auto lockouts in Raleigh Cary Durham and Chapel Hill . Keep their number handy!

What Should I Do In The Event Of A Breakdown?

Millions of car breakdowns occur every year; often proving frustrating and unsettling experiences especially if you have young passengers or are unsure of what to do.

Much of the stress of a breakdown can be relieved by planning ahead many breakdowns can be avoided by ensuring the car is regularly serviced and well maintained. As such there is basic car maintenance that can be carried out by the driver. Checking the engine oil tyre pressure and the condition of the brakes could prevent the frustration of a breakdown and the expense of repairs.

Before taking any journey there are a few items that can be invaluable in a breakdown situation and should be stored in your car. These include a warning triangle a fully charged mobile phone and blankets.

When a breakdown occurs first make the vehicle as visible as possible by activating hazard lights and try to move the car to a safe location by the side of the road. If its possible try to pull the car off the road or motorway completely. If the breakdown does occur on the motorway try to stop the car as near to an emergency phone as possible these are connected to the Police Control Centre and can be used to locate your vehicle.

A warning triangle is a useful tool to store in your boot and can be positioned a suitable distance behind your car to warn other drivers of your predicament. However be careful as it can be dangerous to try and position the warning triangle when broken down on the motorway.

Motorways or busy roads present the biggest risk to the passengers of broken down vehicles. Therefore never wait inside the car or next to it if broken down near heavy traffic. To prevent harm to passengers of another car colliding with the broken down vehicle all occupants must leave the car. Exit via the passenger door on the left hand side and move well away from the road.

In addition never wait on the hard shoulder of a motorway instead move onto the grass or embankment next to the road. Drivers can also risk their own lives from remaining by their vehicle and attempting to fix the problem themselves.

During the winter months it is important to keep a sleeping bag or thick blanket in your car to keep you warm in the event of being stranded simply because the temperature can drop significantly at night.

Most importantly ensure you have adequate and up to date breakdown cover. Often breakdown cover is included within online car insurance quotes or you may be able to negotiate a percentage discount off breakdown cover when booking car insurance online.

Of course there is much to consider with what to do in the event of a car breakdown but it pays to be prepared.

About the writer:  Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote but should be considered professional content.

What Do You Know About Convertible Incredible

What simply can be more appealing than driving a convertible? Convertible sports cars with their sleek and sophisticated looks are much in demand in the market. For someone who is hoping to snag his own top down here are some of the models he or she may want to consider:

1. 2005 BMW Z4

Sure this baby is expensive hey it’s a BMW but its dynamics and features pretty much explain the price. This German sports car makes a statement as it speedily cruises along the highway.

2. 2005 Audi TT

Highperformance powerengined and invigorating the 2005 Audi TT always garners an excellent rating in car reviews. With its awesome windscreen roll hoops and headlamps the driver cannot go wrong with this one.

3. 2005 Chevrolet Corvette

Over time Chevrolet Corvette has proven itself with its remarkable power. Now in its sixth generation the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette is smaller than its older counterparts but better. With a horsepower of 400 it can go from zero to 60 mph per hour in four seconds. Unbelievable! This makes the Corvette a staple in any summer.

4. 2005 Lexus SC 430

The Lexus SC 430 is inspired by no less than the French Riviera. This car can go from coupe to a raging roadster in a span of 25 seconds. It is stylish glamorous and powerful.

5. 2005 Mazda Miata

This model is pretty affordable for its look and power. This is very dependable and dynamic and it will knock the driver ‘off his feet’. With its reactive suspension and immense horsepower this convertible sports car is one for the books.

6. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle

Charming and cute like any other Beetle this monsterengine convertible promises an adventurous ride on those lazy summer afternoons.

7. Jaguar XK8 Convertible

Great design awesome interior and technologicallyadvanced this convertible can bring out the best in every driver. Its speed can go up to 155 mph per hour and the acceleration? Zerp 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds. Now that’s truly incredible!

8. 2006 Cadillac XLR

This is a topoftheline convertible sports car which promises “capacity like no other.” It is almost 78000 but who cares? This is probably the best in the market now.

9. 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster

You should consider test driving this car just to see how much more amazing this car is from its predecessor.

All these convertible sports cars are undeniably worth the money and the effort to maintain them.

About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;Uchenna AniOkoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate ProgramsPick up top of the range Mercedes Benz accessories by visiting: Mercedes Benz Accessories